The economic analysis indicates a net present cost (NPC) of $4. 83M with a competitive LCOE of $0. 42M, rendering it a finan-cially viable alternative to conventional grid-dependent systems. NLR has been involved in the modeling, development, testing, and deployment of microgrids since 2001. A microgrid is a group of interconnected loads and distributed energy resources that acts as a single controllable entity with respect to the grid. It can connect and disconnect from the grid to. Abstract—This study aims to develop a cost-effective micro-grid design that optimally balances the economic feasibility, reliability, eficiency, and environmental impact in a grid-tied community microgrid. A multi-objective optimization framework is employed, integrating HOMER Pro for system sizing. In 2012, the Electric Program Investment Charge (EPIC) was established by the California Public Utilities Commission to fund public investments in research to create and advance new energy solutions, foster regional innovation, and bring ideas from the lab to the marketplace. The EPIC Program is. AKSHAY KUMAR JAIN, PhD Electrical Engineer November 13, 2024 23 Team Members C. TON. According to the Department of Energy, the largest portion of upfront costs typically goes toward equipment and installation, accounting for a whopping 75% of the total budget! This includes: Generators: Natural gas generators cost about $700 to $1,000 per kilowatt, while diesel generators may be. Within the context of the MICROGRIDS project, researchers studied the regulatory, commercial, economic and environmental issues related to the use of microgrids.