After Hurricane Helene outage, NC bookstore installs microgrid for Asheville community

Firestorm Books in Asheville has installed a fully independent microgrid, enabling the bookstore to operate without reliance on the utility grid, following Hurricane Helene’s damaging storm in September 2024.

After Hurricane Helene caused historic flooding, downed power lines, and widespread outages in Asheville, North Carolina, Firestorm Books responded by upgrading its energy infrastructure. The bookstore, which had a small solar array prior to the storm, was unable to use it fully during the crisis due to grid dependency and lack of batteries. In response, the co-op partnered with Footprint Project, a disaster management nonprofit, to develop a microgrid system. The new setup includes four batteries, an inverter, and a solar array, allowing the bookstore to operate independently of the utility grid.

The project involved donations from Briggs & Stratton and Sol-Ark, with installation by Asheville Solar Company. The system is configured to use batteries actively, with Duke Energy’s Lake Julian plant serving as backup. The initiative was supported by a small cash grant and a 0% interest repayable grant through Invest Appalachia. Firestorm’s microgrid enables the store to maintain operations during outages and store excess solar energy for future use, reducing reliance on the grid and increasing resilience.

Microgrid Enhances Disaster Resilience for Asheville Community

This development is significant because it demonstrates a practical approach for small community hubs to become energy independent and resilient in the face of increasing climate-related disasters. By installing a microgrid, Firestorm Books can continue serving as a community resource during outages, which is critical given the increasing frequency of storms like Hurricane Helene. The project also highlights the role of partnerships and donations in advancing renewable energy solutions for community resilience.

Hurricane Helene’s Devastation and the Need for Resilient Infrastructure

On September 27, 2024, Hurricane Helene caused widespread flooding, landslides, and power outages across Asheville, NC. The storm destroyed homes, closed roads, and left communities without power or potable water. In its immediate aftermath, Firestorm Books became a vital community hub, providing supplies, water, and mutual aid coordination. Despite having a solar array, the bookstore’s grid-tied system was non-functional during the crisis due to lack of batteries and grid dependency. This experience underscored the need for resilient, off-grid energy solutions for critical community infrastructure.

“The microgrid system allows Firestorm to operate independently during outages, significantly increasing its resilience in disaster scenarios.”

— an anonymous researcher

Remaining Uncertainties About Long-Term Cost and Maintenance

It is not yet clear how the ongoing costs of maintaining and operating the microgrid will impact Firestorm’s budget over the coming years. Additionally, the long-term reliability of the system beyond initial testing remains to be seen, especially as the batteries approach the end of their lifespan. The impact of policy changes, such as the scheduled end of net metering in January 2027, may also influence future operational costs and energy savings.

Next Steps for Expanding Resilience and Community Impact

Firestorm plans to explore additional resilience projects, such as rainwater collection and storage, to further reduce reliance on external infrastructure. The bookstore also intends to monitor the microgrid’s performance over time and share lessons learned with other community organizations. Policymakers and utility providers may also review the microgrid’s success as a potential model for broader adoption in disaster-prone regions.

Key Questions

How does the microgrid improve Firestorm Books’ resilience?

The microgrid allows the bookstore to operate independently of the utility grid during outages, ensuring continuous power for operations and community support activities.

Who funded and installed the microgrid system?

The project was supported by donations from Briggs & Stratton and Sol-Ark, with installation by Asheville Solar Company, and a grant from Footprint Project and Invest Appalachia.

Will the microgrid save money in the long run?

Currently, the system is not a cost-saving measure, but after the expiration of net metering in 2027, it could reduce energy costs by utilizing stored solar energy more effectively.

Can this model be replicated elsewhere?

Yes, the partnership approach and funding sources used here could serve as a template for other community centers seeking resilience solutions.

What other resilience projects might Firestorm pursue?

The bookstore is considering rainwater harvesting and storage to further reduce dependence on external infrastructure during disasters.

Source: Solar Power World