WHITE SANDS MISSILE RANGE, New Mexico — In December 2024, the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) has unveiled a cutting-edge hydrogen-powered small microgrid (nanogrid) at the White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) in New Mexico. This innovative demonstration represents a team effort led by ERDC, partnering with the Directorate of Public Works (DPW) Environmental Division at WSMR and the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command, known as DEVCOM, Army Research Laboratory (ARL) Atmospheric Intelligence for Hybrid Power Advancements (AIHPA). Notably, this will be the first operational nanogrid of its kind in the Army.
A nanogrid is a small self-contained electric power system that can operate independently from the electric power grid, and it can supply power to improve resilience to potential power outages or to areas where there is no grid power. The nanogrid at WSMR uses renewable hydrogen fuel to replace traditional bulky, noisy diesel generators. It provides power to a surveillance camera system and meteorological weather equipment, supporting continuous, unattended operation in a remote off-grid location. The nanogrid enables this equipment to operate in the particular location where “silent watch” capabilities of hydrogen-powered generation are needed in a pristine environment.