Northside Aztlan Community Center
53kW Rooftop Solar Array + 280kWh Battery
Supporting Community Initiatives
The Northside Aztlan Community Center is a fitness and event center owned and operated by the City of Fort Collins. Sandbox+ Solar, a local Fort Collins solar EPC, had the pleasure of working with Ageto and Fort Collins Utilities to construct and install a 53 kW rooftop array coupled with a battery energy storage system.
The battery energy storage system comprises 280 kWh of storage. Using an Ageto microgrid controller connected to the PV upgrade, Aztlan has critical load backup and grid interaction that allows it to discharge power to the municipal-owned utility grid at critical times.
Local Energy & Community Impact
Sandbox+ Solar is proud to work with many collaborators and truly values the opportunity to go back to our roots and to work with the City of Fort Collins on this project. Bringing local energy to our hometown, we are inspired by our city taking charge of its power. As Colorado’s top solar contractor, we are excited to provide our Fort Collins community with self-sufficiency through renewable energy solutions.
Northside Aztlan Center FAQs
What is the Northside Aztlan Center Solar Microgrid?
Commissioned in April 2023, this project features a solar and battery-coupled system. With the ability to discharge to the grid, this project demonstrates how essential communications can be maintained during natural emergencies. When the grid goes down, the battery and solar keep essential equipment running to allow first responders to communicate in the Fort Collins area. The battery and solar system act as an energy generation and storage device, allowing the building to self-operate when the grid is down.
How does this Microgrid help during an emergency?
The local energy grid often has to be shut down during emergencies such as wildfires, flooding, and high winds. When these scenarios happen, first responders may be unable to communicate with each other. In these cases, the Aztlan Community Center will be able to serve as a central hub for first responders to coordinate essential operations, ensuring the safety of our community.
Renewable Energy Data and Load Demand Management
Solar and Battery Microgrids can help businesses and buildings reduce Demand charges. This project was a first for the City of Fort Collins to understand how a battery system can reduce electricity demand charges. Our partner Ageto constructed the microgrid software, HOMER, to optimize the energy matrix of this complex system. The software can track the consumption rate, discharge times, and overall efficiency of the entire energy performance at the Northside Aztlan Center.
Powering the Future with Sandbox+ Solar
With over 10 years of sustained growth along the Front Range, Sandbox+ Solar continues to be recognized as a Colorado Energy leader. Helping businesses, residences, and communities gain independence through self-sufficiency, Sandbox+ Solar believes in the future of distributed energy. For all in services and contact your local energy experts here.