Microgrid-as-a-Service (MaaS) is an innovative energy solution designed to help businesses effectively manage their power usage, without the burden of ownership. At Catalyst Power®, we handle everything for our customers, providing a sustainable system that delivers numerous benefits from reliability to cost-effectiveness. For companies facing hefty demand charges, MaaS offers a targeted way to lower energy expenses during peak hours while leveraging on-site generation and storage. Let’s break down how MaaS works, its benefits, and Catalyst Power’s unique Connected Microgrid® approach.
What Is Microgrid-as-a-Service (MaaS)?
A microgrid is a localized energy system that generates electricity on-site using distributed energy resources (DERs), such as solar panels and battery storage. Rather than owning the infrastructure, businesses partner with a MaaS provider who designs, installs, operates, and maintains the system. Customers pay for the energy produced through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), allowing them to enjoy strategic cost savings without out-of-pocket expenses.
When MaaS May Be Ideal
MaaS offers significant benefits and is typically suitable for businesses and organizations that face high energy costs, particularly those burdened by demand charges. Here are a couple of scenarios where MaaS is most beneficial:
- Facilities with Predictable Energy Usage Patterns: Organizations with consistent peak hours—such as manufacturers, skilled nursing facilities, or large commercial buildings—can maximize the benefits of a microgrid by using stored energy strategically during these periods.
- Industries Requiring Resilience: Facilities that rely on uninterrupted power—such as hospitals, data centers, or critical infrastructure—can use microgrids to ensure reliability during outages or grid instability.
Catalyst Power’s Connected Microgrid Solution
Catalyst Power has refined the MaaS model with its Connected Microgrid, offering businesses a tailored solution specifically designed to combat high demand charges while integrating solar power.
Strategic Peak Demand Reduction
Catalyst Power’s Connected Microgrid focuses on reducing exposure to demand charges by generating and storing power during off-peak hours and deploying it strategically during peak periods. This targeted approach helps businesses save money without overproducing or attempting full-time grid replacement.
Through the Maas model, Catalyst Power installs and operates the system throughout the term of the PPA.
Customer Fit
This solution is ideal for heavy power users—such as manufacturers or commercial facilities—whose bills are dominated by demand charges rather than supply costs. Catalyst Power’s system enables these businesses to reduce their exposure to high energy costs while maintaining operational reliability.
Moving Forward
Microgrid-as-a-Service is a game-changing model for businesses looking to reduce hefty demand charges without upfront investments or operational complexity. Catalyst Power’s Connected Microgrid exemplifies this approach by focusing on strategic peak reduction rather than full-time independence from the grid. By helping customers overcome financial hurdles and simplifying the entire process, Catalyst Power eliminates the stress of financing their own system. With tailored solutions that deliver cost savings and sustainability benefits, Catalyst Power empowers businesses to take control of their energy expenses while remaining focused on growth.
For companies paying a lot in demand charges, Catalyst Power’s Connected Microgrid offers a smart way to generate your own power—exactly when you need it most!
