North Carolina food bank gets microgrid backup for future storms

A food pantry in Marshall, North Carolina, has installed a solar and battery system that will keep it running during future storms. Beacon of Hope Food Pantry, which came through Hurricane Helene largely unscathed two years ago, now has 56 rooftop solar panels and three batteries that store power from the sun and release it at night or when skies are cloudy. The setup, known as a microgrid, can keep the internet, lights, and heating, cooling, and refrigeration running in the pantry's food distribution area even if the main power grid goes down.

The $100,000 project cost the pantry nothing. It was paid for mostly through a $5 million state grant program North Carolina set up last year, using federal infrastructure funds, to build 24 similar microgrids in counties hit by Helene. A philanthropic foundation and a regional development fund also helped cover costs and bridge the gap until federal rebates come through, since nonprofits can wait over a year to get reimbursed for 30% of solar costs. Beacon is one of the first two sites in the program to reach completion, alongside a community center in Lake Lure. State officials say the program, due to wrap up by next summer, is shifting toward smaller, simpler projects like this one because larger microgrids often run into delays tied to federal rules on equipment sourcing.

Beyond storm backup, the solar panels are expected to cut Beacon's electric bill by at least a quarter each year, freeing up roughly $5,600 for food assistance.