Foss & Company Ventures Into Microgrid Investment with $30 Million Partnership in Maryland

Foss & Company Steps into the Microgrid Sector

Foss & Company, a well-established tax credit syndicator, recently made a significant leap into the microgrid sector by securing an investment of approximately $30 million under Section 48 tax equity. This milestone was reached through a collaboration with AlphaStruxure, a prominent developer specializing in microgrid solutions. The investment will fund an advanced energy system in Montgomery County, Maryland, integrating solar photovoltaic (PV) generation with state-of-the-art battery energy storage.

This particular project aims to power a transit facility that supports an electric bus fleet. Its commercial operations are expected to commence by August 2026, with projections indicating that it will generate over 6,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) of clean energy annually. Such a significant output will substantially lessen the transit facility’s dependence on the traditional power grid while also helping to shrink its carbon footprint.

Bryen Alperin, a partner and managing director at Foss & Company, expressed enthusiasm for this new venture, stating, "We are thrilled to close this investment alongside AlphaStruxure, which signifies an expansion of our portfolio into microgrid technology. Project Orchid epitomizes the innovative, high-impact clean energy infrastructure we strive to support. Ultimately, we aim to deliver resilient, sustainable power to public transit while generating strong returns for our investors."

Unveiling a New Era for Clean Energy

AlphaStruxure, known for its expertise in developing integrated energy systems tailored for complex facilities, is poised to play a crucial role in the success of this project. Troy Patton, the general manager of AlphaStruxure, echoed the excitement surrounding the partnership, emphasizing the potential benefits that the microgrid solution will bring to Montgomery County's transit operations. He said, "We look forward to delivering a best-in-class microgrid solution that will serve Montgomery County's transit operations for decades to come."

The project benefits greatly from the Section 48 Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which encourages the deployment of clean energy technologies such as solar and energy storage. This funding mechanism is vital in advancing the decarbonization of public infrastructure, making projects like this financially feasible and environmentally beneficial.

A Commitment to Sustainability

With a history dating back to 1983, Foss & Company has deployed more than $11 billion in tax equity across various sectors, including renewable energy and historic rehabilitation projects. Their extensive experience makes them a key player in the transition to sustainable energy solutions. Furthermore, their new partnership with AlphaStruxure is set to yield not just financial returns, but also a marked contribution toward environmentally responsible public transit.

As Foss & Company delves deeper into clean energy through this innovative microgrid initiative, they position themselves not just as investors but as vital contributors to a sustainable future. The organization aims to lead by example, showcasing how private investments can facilitate significant advancements in public infrastructure while addressing climate change.

The anticipation surrounding this project showcases a growing recognition of the importance of clean energy solutions in urban settings and sets a precedent for future investments in sustainable infrastructure across the country. The push toward microgrids is a significant move away from conventional energy models, paving the way for more resilient, responsive, and, importantly, environmentally friendly energy practices.

In closing, the Foss & Company and AlphaStruxure partnership signifies a crucial step in reshaping public transit infrastructure. By integrating cutting-edge energy systems, they are setting the stage for future developments that embrace sustainability and environmental stewardship.