Residential microgrids pose an intriguing concept: What if developers could supply electricity to a whole neighborhood independent of the grid?

One year ago, Schneider Electric and KB Home brought the concept into reality with their Department of Energy-backed project in Menifee, California.

It was groundbreaking. But can it be duplicated?

While Schneider Electric explores ways to make the technology mainstream, builders and developers can brace for an exciting new frontier in power generation.

Here’s what you need to know:

Microgrids Are Self-Sufficient

Microgrids typically integrate renewable energy sources like solar power, battery storage, and advanced energy management systems, providing self-sufficient energy that can operate independently or in conjunction with the main electrical grid. This makes it a versatile solution for reducing dependency on traditional energy sources.

Schneider Electric has been at the forefront of microgrid innovation. The Menifee initiative brought together Schneider, KB Home, and the University of California, Irvine, and others to create one of the first community-scale residential microgrids. It’s a pilot project with the aim of developing a replicable model for future residential microgrids without relying heavily on subsidies.

Currently, these projects require multiple manufacturers to complete a microgrid assembly, which has slowed the pace of adoption. The goal, says Will Shippee, Schneider Electric’s director of business development strategy, is to make these systems more “out-of-the-box,” reducing the need for custom engineering for each new project. Simplifying this process will be critical for scaling microgrid solutions across multiple developments, he says.

As the technology becomes more refined, the team at Schnieder Electric is optimistic that more residential developments will tap into microgrids to be less dependent on the grid. In the face of intensifying weather, utility providers, policymakers, and the private sector are looking for more resilient, cleaner power sources—and microgrids are proving to be a promising solution.

“I’m pretty confident that we’re going to see it become a more common practice, especially in states like California and Texas where issues with traditional electrical distribution are becoming more common,” says Bradford Wills, manager of Schneider Electric’s national home builder program.

Microgrids Complement Electric Vehicle Charging

Another reason to be optimistic about the future of microgrids: electric vehicle (EV) charging.

Homeowners with electric vehicles essentially have a battery on four wheels that not only supplies power back to the home via charging stations, but also the neighborhood microgrid. This is called bidirectional charging, and Schneider Electric believes that it could be a game changer. Imagine using a car for backup power during an outage or as a primary power source during hours of peak demand when electricity from the utility is costliest.

“Having this technology, homeowners could run their entire house on a giant battery and ride through those high rates,” Wills says.

Furthermore, the integration of EVs into community microgrids provides an additional dynamic source of power, making these communities even more resilient. This synergy between EVs, solar energy, and microgrids is key to advancing sustainable energy solutions and reducing grid dependence.

Microgrids Work Seamlessly With Energy Management Systems

Schneider Home plays a pivotal role in integrating EVs, solar energy, and microgrids into a cohesive energy management solution.

The system simplifies energy management by combining solar power, battery storage, and EV charging into one scalable solution, with features like load control to extend battery runtime and remote service through an online dashboard. The system is managed via the Schneider Home app, offering real-time energy monitoring and remote control of appliances.

This system was also designed for ease of installation and commissioning with the builder in mind, as each piece is developed by the same company, designed to be integrated easily into new builds or retrofitted models, and can be commissioned as a single unit. Schneider Home’s compact design also requires fewer electrical boxes on the wall, enhancing the overall aesthetics for potential customers.

Schneider Home is a flexible, intuitive solution that helps reduce energy costs and enhances home resilience during power outages. With Schneider Home, builders can future-proof their houses today for the energy of tomorrow. Learn more.