Date of Conferral

2020

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Policy and Administration

Advisor

Christina Spoons

Abstract

The electric grid may be the most critical and vital component of the United States' infrastructure but is projected to fail more frequently in the future. One solution for improving grid resiliency is through renewable energy and microgrids. However, many cities lack public policies to bring these solutions to fruition. The purpose of this study was to discover the perceived and real challenges to the development of policies necessary for the implementation of a microgrid system for a small city in Ohio. Using a generic qualitative approach and the principles of participatory action research, data were obtained through interviews of elected officials at the local, state, or federal levels and individuals who were familiar with renewable energy policies or microgrid concepts. The theoretical framework used to analyze the data was the multiple streams approach. Data analysis revealed 5 categories that comprise the theme of barriers: apathy, a lack of awareness and education, personal beliefs, expense, and fear as preventing small Ohio cities from developing policies for the creation of microgrids. Also, identified in this study were how the categories of education, incentives, investment, relationships, and systems planning comprised the theme of incentives and solutions for promoting the development of a microgrid. This research contributes to the body of knowledge regarding renewable energy policies by validating existing literature and identifying apathy as a contributing factor not found in the literature. Understanding barriers identified by this research will assist elected officials in the development of policies for microgrids that will protect critical infrastructure, enhance community resiliency, and preserve the quality of life for the community.

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