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Microgrids Bring Wealth and Health to Puerto Ricans Without Power for More than a Year

Summary

In a mountainous region of Puerto Rico called Cordillera Central, rural microgrids deployed by the island's first electric cooperative are providing economic prosperity and energy resilience. These microgrids have attracted wealthy Tesla and other electric vehicle (EV) owners who journey to the low-income towns to charge their cars and contribute to the local economy. Beyond attracting car owners, the microgrids have lower energy costs and enhance energy resilience, benefiting the region's impoverished population. The cooperative ensures that anyone in need of medical devices during power outages has access to the microgrids, protecting the health of local citizens. With the aim of further improving energy access, the cooperative plans to deploy 30 additional solar microgrids in the area, funded by a $250,000 grant from the federal Department of Energy. These microgrids will help businesses lower energy costs, prevent power outages, and promote economic development while contributing to Puerto Rico's goal of achieving 100% renewable energy by 2050.

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