Graduation Year
2025
Date of Submission
12-2024
Document Type
Campus Only Senior Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts
Department
Environmental Analysis
Reader 1
Colin Robins
Reader 2
Janet Sheung
Reader 3
N/A
Rights Information
2024 James D Nielsen
Abstract
The Greenville rebuild project in northern California represents a paradigm shift in rural energy resilience, following the devastation of the 2021 Dixie Fire. This thesis explores the design and integration of a renewable microgrid that combines solar photovoltaics (PV), biomass combined heat and power (CHP), and other renewable technologies to meet the community’s unique energy demands. With a design capacity of 1.75 MW, the microgrid is 250% of Greenville’s pre-fire electrical load, ensuring redundancy and resilience. Key challenges addressed include the intermittency of solar energy, the complexities of biomass fuel sourcing, and the operational intricacies of microgrid control systems.
Solar PV, projected to produce 1,127 MWh annually, serves as the primary energy source, supported by biomass CHP for high-efficiency energy and heat generation. Local forest biomass fuels not only mitigate wildfire risks but also offset the costs of forest restoration. Advanced technologies, such as reclosers and microgrid controllers, ensure fault isolation and reduce outages, demonstrating scalability for similar rural areas.
This work employs sustainable leadership theory to navigate the complexities of implementing integrative energy systems. The findings highlight the necessity of place-specific solutions that consider environmental, technical, and community dynamics. Greenville’s renewable microgrid offers a replicable model for building resilient, carbon-reduced energy systems in fire-prone regions. By integrating renewable technologies with innovative leadership, this thesis provides a pathway toward sustainable energy futures for vulnerable communities.
Recommended Citation
Nielsen, James, "From Crisis to Innovation: A Multi-Source Renewable Microgrid for Rural Resilience" (2025). CMC Senior Theses. 3862.
https://scholarship.claremont.edu/cmc_theses/3862
This thesis is restricted to the Claremont Colleges current faculty, students, and staff.
