Community Power Networks
What is a Community Power Network?
A community power network connects local solar, batteries, and smart devices so they can work together to power a community.
Instead of relying on one big power plant, energy is generated and shared close to home — lowering costs and reducing strain on the grid when demand is highest.
Some experts call this a Virtual Power Plant. We call it a smarter, more affordable way to power our communities.
The Benefits
Lower Costs
By using solar and storage where energy is needed most, these networks can lower costs by reducing the need for new infrastructure.
Increase Reliability
Community Power Networks strengthen resilience by keeping energy flowing during outages.
Center Communities
Community Power Networks center local energy sources already present in communities rather than funneling dollars into utility-owned assets.
How It Works?
Think of a Community Power Network like an orchestra. Each resource - rooftop solar, a home battery, an EV charger, even a smart thermostat - plays its part. On their own, they make a difference. Together, they create something far more powerful. An operating system acts as the conductor, bringing these resources into sync to supply energy when demand spikes, reducing pressure on the grid and delivering reliable, flexible power exactly when it’s needed. Instead of relying on one massive power plant, we can rely on thousands of local energy sources working together.
Why Aren't These Networks Everywhere Yet?
The technology is here. The barrier is the system. Our energy system was built for a different era - one where power flowed in a single direction from large, centralized plants. Today, that model is driving higher costs, with expensive infrastructure expansions, aging systems that require constant repair, and rising demand that continues to strain the grid. In the current model, utilities aren’t rewarded for scaling local solar and storage, just outdated fossil fuel infrastructure. Market rules often undervalue community-based power and planning processes overlook cost-saving local resources. The result? One of the most effective tools for lowering costs and improving reliability is drastically underused.
Community Power Networks in the News
Michigan Regulators Signal Major Shift: Utilities Must Incorporate Community Power Networks into Future Energy Planning
Decision warns future investments may be rejected if they fail to account for distributed, customer-centered solutions In a landmark decision in the Consumers Energy rate case, the Michigan Public Ser➤
News Michigan