Eaton, a leader in intelligent power management, is set to install a renewable energy microgrid at Maplewood Intermediate/Middle School in Menasha, Wisconsin. This project, the largest of its kind in the state, will provide reliable and eco-friendly energy while saving the Menasha Joint School District an estimated $190,000 annually on energy costs. Expected to be completed by 2025, the microgrid will help the school achieve net-zero energy and benefit approximately 1,000 students.
Brian Adesso, Director of Business Services at Menasha Joint School District, said in a statement, “One major goal for the district was to ensure our new facility was an energy efficient and sustainable model conserving taxpayer dollars and natural resources. From project visualization to design and installation, Eaton’s depth of expertise and comprehensive solutions have proven invaluable in our journey toward net zero.”
The Menasha Joint School District is building a new, sustainable Maplewood Intermediate/Middle School designed with advanced energy-saving features to support regional carbon neutrality goals. Eaton is contributing by installing a solar-plus-storage microgrid, including 1.3 MW of solar panels, energy storage, and natural gas generators, to supply all the school’s energy needs with eco-friendly power. This project showcases Eaton’s “Buildings as a Grid” approach, which helps create flexible and efficient energy systems.
Nelly Maximous, vice president of energy transition sales at Eaton, also stated, “From the critical community infrastructure to the world’s most demanding industries, we’re proud to provide the safe, sustainable and resilient solutions our customers need to simplify their transition to a low-carbon energy future. This project is a prime example of how sustainable electrification can support a stronger and greener future. We’re confident our proven expertise and clean energy management solutions will provide long-term value for the region, school district and environment.”
Eaton’s innovative microgrid controller and xStorage™ battery energy storage system are key components of the new energy solution for the Menasha Joint School District. The controller, integrated into a standard switchboard, allows efficient management of electricity use and simplifies microgrid deployment. The xStorage™ system helps store and use solar energy effectively, ensuring reliable power and reducing energy costs.
To maximize the project’s benefits, the district is leveraging Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) tax credits, with Eaton guiding the design to meet domestic preference requirements under the IRA. Additionally, Paul Ryan, Eaton’s general manager of connected solutions and EV charging, shared practical strategies for energy electrification during a keynote at the Reuters Energy Transition North America 2024 event in Houston on December 4.
