Eaton announced that it will provide 370 kW solar microgrid for the New Manchester Public Library in Connecticut to help the building reach zero net energy consumption (ZNE) readiness.

The newly built library will implement grid interactive renewable energy, battery storage, and electric vehicle (EV) charging, which will help maximize energy savings and alleviate the pressure on the local power grid. The project is scheduled to be completed in 2026 and aims to achieve zero net energy (ZNE) readiness.

Eaton uses its "building is grid" approach to achieve a flexible energy system, enabling Manchester Town to strategically balance energy production and consumption, while enhancing grid flexibility. Eaton will synchronize on-site renewable energy, energy storage, and electric vehicle charging with the local energy market, enabling libraries to optimize energy use and enabling utility companies to better manage peak demand and support the grid.

Paul Ryan, vice president and general manager of Eaton Energy Transformation, said: "The new Manchester Public Library shows how smart energy management can reduce the cost and demand of the power grid, while optimizing flexibility and sustainability." "We believe that our proven smart power management solutions and expertise will benefit Manchester Town and its residents in the coming decades."

Eaton is providing power infrastructure, turnkey engineering services, and return on investment (ROI) modeling for the project. With its microgrid control solution and grid interactive xStorage Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), Eaton will help libraries maximize on-site solar energy consumption and output excess power to support grid stability. In addition, Eaton also utilizes its industry-leading electric vehicle charging partnership with ChargePoint to provide vehicle charging infrastructure that helps intelligently reduce costs, effectively manage site power demand, and improve reliability.

"Our community strongly supports our investment in this state-of-the-art library as a beacon of sustainable development, innovation and education," said Steve Stephanou, mayor of Manchester. Eaton's forward-looking solutions and strong relationship with the project team are crucial for us to turn our goal of building Connecticut's first net zero public library into a reality

The project is supported by federal tax credits, state and local funding, and incentives provided through energy storage solutions programs. The program is supervised by the Public Utility Regulatory Authority (PURA), paid for by electricity taxpayers, and managed by Connecticut Green Bank, Eversource, and United Lighting Company (UI). Learn more about how Eaton can help future grid interactive buildings achieve electrification.