The vulnerability of electrical grids to disruptions can lead to widespread power outages, particularly affecting remote and rural communities. As the United States strives for energy independence and reliability, developing resilient energy solutions is essential. Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories’ Resilient Energy and Distributed Systems Integration (REDSI) group are pioneering a novel approach to enhance microgrid technology through the Microgrid Optimization System using Artificial Intelligent Controls (MOSAIC).
Funded by Department of Energy’s Office of Electricity, MOSAIC represents an early-stage technology designed to optimize the integration of distributed energy resources into local dynamic microgrids. By coordinating distributed energy resources, MOSAIC aims to provide reliable on-site power generation, ensuring that communities have access to electricity even during outages. This innovative microgrid controller not only enhances energy resilience but also considers critical services, promoting resilient and reliable access to electricity.
According to Rachid Darbali-Zamora, principal investigator on the project, “The idea behind hardening a microgrid controller with AI is to provide a solution for microgrid operators that adapts to their specific needs, under a variety of unprecedented conditions.”
MOSAIC uses Resilient Node Cluster Analysis Tool (ReNCAT) metrics to identify the optimal microgrid configuration to ensure critical services are energized during both normal operations and outages. This dynamic metric allows the microgrid to prioritize power distribution based on real-time conditions and grid needs. For instance, during a brownout MOSAIC could prioritize powering a community with a high number of elderly or young children over a business district during the evening, but then shift power to that business area during the day. This real-time shift would ensure that those most vulnerable to a power outage would be the least impacted. By minimizing this burden, MOSAIC not only enhances energy access but also contributes to the economic vitality of communities.
Ongoing research on MOSAIC seeks to refine its capabilities and expand its applications. Future efforts will focus on enhancing the adaptability of the microgrid controller to various grid contexts, ensuring that it can seamlessly integrate with different distributed energy sources and grid configurations.
Sandia’s commitment to collaboration is evident in its partnerships with universities, industry leaders, and community organizations. This approach fosters a sense of ownership among residents, empowering them to take an active role in shaping their energy landscape. Training and educational opportunities provided through the MOSAIC initiative equip community members with the skills needed for microgrid operation and maintenance, opening doors to new employment prospects.
To learn more about MOSAIC and its potential impact on energy resilience, contact Rachid Darbali-Zamora. For more information on Sandia’s energy innovation efforts, visit energy.sandia.gov.
September 10, 2025