HSGS-Ameresco Completes $10.9M Water Resiliency Microgrid at White Sands
Ameresco, Inc. (NYSE: AMRC), a leading energy solutions provider specializing in energy efficiency and renewable energy, proudly announced the successful completion of its $10.9 million Water Resiliency Microgrid Project at White Sands Missile Range (WSMR). A ribbon-cutting ceremony on February 26, 2025, celebrated this key milestone in WSMR’s commitment to enhancing both energy and water resiliency.
The project was designed and executed by HSGS-Ameresco, LLC, a joint venture certified as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) by the Small Business Administration and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). HSGS-Ameresco focuses on providing energy generation, smart controls, and building efficiency solutions to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and other Federal agencies across the nation.
The innovative microgrid system integrates a 700kW solar photovoltaic (PV) array, a 500kW natural gas generator, and a 500kW lithium-ion battery system. Together, these components ensure that the microgrid provides reliable backup power to four groundwater wells located on the missile range. These wells supply critical water to WSMR, and the microgrid ensures that operations remain uninterrupted, even during prolonged power outages.
The system was designed to meet the U.S. Army’s critical requirement: ensuring that energy and water can be sustained for up to fourteen days without relying on civilian supply sources. This self-sufficient system serves a specific area at WSMR, enabling the base to continue operations smoothly even in emergencies. By guaranteeing a continuous supply of potable water to the main post, the microgrid directly supports WSMR’s readiness and capacity for future infrastructure projects, integrating sustainable and resilient energy solutions.
Craig Collins, the WSMR Installation Energy Manager, emphasized the importance of the project: “This system helps us meet the U.S. Army’s requirement for 14-day energy and water independence for installations. We no longer have to worry about power outages affecting our water supply. We can keep pumping water even when the power goes out.”
The microgrid’s operation combines the capabilities of several energy sources to ensure a reliable and uninterrupted power supply. The solar array captures energy during the day, while the natural gas generator provides backup power if needed. Additionally, the lithium-ion battery system stores excess energy produced by the solar array and releases it when demand increases. An advanced microgrid controller manages the entire system, balancing the energy output from the solar array, the generator, and the battery, optimizing energy use and distribution across the system.
“This microgrid project is a great example of how innovative energy solutions can improve the resilience and efficiency of critical infrastructure,” said Nicole Bulgarino, President of Federal Solutions and Utility Infrastructure at Ameresco. “Our collaboration with White Sands Missile Range has resulted in a robust system that ensures continuous operation and supports the installation’s mission readiness. We are proud to contribute to a more sustainable and secure energy future for the military.”
WSMR Garrison Commander, Col. Donyeill Mozer, expressed appreciation for the teamwork involved in the successful execution of the project: “This would not have been possible without the hard work and collaboration of our partners, contractors, planners, and key stakeholders, especially the Garrison DPW team. Their dedication has ensured that White Sands Missile Range will have the infrastructure it needs to support both current and future operations.”
Dave McNeil, CEO/President of Hannah Solar Government Services-Ameresco, LLC, reflected on the project’s significance: “As an Army veteran, every time I work with fellow soldiers and contractors, it feels like I’m coming home. I’m incredibly proud that our company is dedicated to providing energy security for America, particularly for our military and Army.”
The completion of this microgrid project at White Sands Missile Range demonstrates the power of innovation, collaboration, and sustainability. The project enhances energy resiliency and operational readiness, showcasing how effective partnerships can address the unique energy challenges faced by critical infrastructure. It marks an important step forward in creating a more sustainable and secure energy future for the nation’s military and its essential operations.
About Ameresco, Inc.
Founded in 2000, Ameresco, Inc. (NYSE: AMRC) is a leading energy solutions provider dedicated to helping its customers reduce costs, enhance resilience, and achieve net-zero emissions in the global energy transition. Ameresco’s comprehensive portfolio includes implementing smart energy efficiency solutions, upgrading aging infrastructure, and developing, constructing, and operating distributed energy resources. Serving Federal, state, and local governments, utilities, educational institutions, healthcare organizations, housing authorities, and commercial and industrial customers, Ameresco offers local expertise across North America and Europe. Headquartered in Framingham, MA, the company employs more than 1,500 people globally.
