FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WFFT) — City Utilities has flipped the switch for renewable energy as the city’s Microgrid power generating network has been officially activated.

The Microgrid provides a sustainable way to power the Three Rivers Filtration Plant, Water Pollution Control Plant and Wet-Weather Pump Station.

The project turns solar panels and battery storage as well as biogas and natural gas into power for the three facilities.

It can be attached to a centralized national grid but can also function independently.

City Utilities’ 12,000 floating solar panel display in the Microgrid is currently the second largest in the United States.

“Being good stewards of the environment is at the forefront of the efforts being led by City Utilities,” Mayor Sharon Tucker said. “Using renewable energy technology sets a positive example for residents and businesses that we care about Fort Wayne and want what’s best for our community. Projects like the Microgrid initiative help us provide an enhanced quality of life for all.”

In total, the three facilities use roughly 38.5 million kilowatt-hours annually of electricity. The Microgrid’s solar panels generate about nine million kWh annually.

City Utilities says biogas contributes another seven million kWh in generated electricity.

Overall, the Microgrid helps supply over 40% of the power needed for the three facilities, which is enough energy for 1,600 homes per year.

“Our Microgrid is one of only a few in the nation for water and sewer utilities. It is designed to cut electricity costs and boost reliability well into the future,” Kumar Menon, City Utilities director, said. “It allows us to operate independently from the national grid, ensuring continuous service during storms. It reinforces our commitment to environmental stewardship by using natural resources and combining them with waste to generate power.”

While the system was just officially switched online, it has already received three awards.

• 2024 Indiana Green Project of the Year – Accelerate Indiana Municipalities.
• 2024 Utility of the Future Today – Water Environment Federation, North Association of Clean Water Agencies, The Water Research Foundation, US Water Alliance and WaterReuse
• 2024 National Environmental Achievement Award for Public Service by an Elected Official – presented to the late Mayor Tom Henry in February by the National Association of Clean Water Agencies

The system will also review cost-effective power methods each day and generate power. That power will be paired with biogas from food waste and natural gas engines.

The Microgrid will decrease greenhouse gas emissions annually by 4,600 tons which equals 1,161 gasoline-powered vehicles.

“Our Microgrid brings clear environmental and economic benefits. We’re confident it will increase reliability in emergencies and diminish storm-related vulnerabilities. It also has the potential to save us significantly with projected electricity cost avoidance of $8-$10 million in the first 20 years and $60-$70 million over 40 years,” Matthew Wirtz, City Utilities deputy director of engineering, said.

The system is located south of the Lake Avenue and Beacon Street intersection.