A Sustainable Power Play at the Beach
The San Diego race weekend required a self‑sufficient power solution because the venue sits on Naval Air Station North Island, an active military installation where connection to the civilian grid is restricted. To keep the event running without relying on external utilities, NASCAR engineered a compact microgrid that could operate independently while still delivering the full race experience.
At the heart of the system are thirty Battery Energy Storage Systems that store excess energy and discharge it as needed. Diesel generators are kept on standby but run for only about two hours each day, providing a minimal backup that ensures reliability without dominating fuel consumption.
ABB’s microgrid technology integrates the batteries with the generators, allowing seamless switching between stored power and backup fuel. This hybrid approach powers everything from the on‑track motorsport activities and pit road to fan zones and behind‑the‑scenes operations, demonstrating a scalable blueprint for remote racing events worldwide.
CJ Tobin, NASCAR’s managing director for racing operations, highlighted the initiative as a proof of concept that can be replicated at other venues. He noted that the model not only meets logistical constraints but also aligns with the sport’s broader sustainability agenda, aiming for net‑zero operating emissions by 2035.
Eric Nyquist, Chief Impact Officer, emphasized that environmental responsibility does not come at the expense of racing quality. By focusing on efficiency and reducing diesel use, NASCAR can maintain high performance while moving toward cleaner operations.
To illustrate this commitment, a 20‑by‑8‑by‑18‑foot glass pod was installed at the event, displaying real‑time telemetry and advanced analytics. The pod offers fans a transparent view of the energy flow and operational metrics, turning sustainability into an engaging part of the race weekend experience.
Looking ahead, NASCAR plans to roll out similar data‑display pods at other tracks, expanding the transparency initiative and further integrating sustainable practices across its network. The hybrid generators and remote control systems used here underscore the organization’s ability to power major events independently while advancing its environmental targets.