WorleyParsons to install microgrid at University of Toronto
WorleyParsons, a global professional services firm for the energy sector, plans to install a direct current (DC) microgrid system at the University of Toronto in Ontario, Canada.
Installed in collaboration with ARDA Power, the 150-kW system will be used in conjunction with the university’s research into energy management software for electric vehicle charging.
The microgrid is also expected to provide the university with power resiliency and lower electricity costs.
The system will couple energy supplied by the grid and rooftop solar with a lithium-ion battery and DC loads.
“DC microgrid technology holds great promise for simplifying microgrid design and the related interconnection process, and for improving efficiency by eliminating redundant AC/DC conversions,” said Tristan Jackson, director of smart & distributed energy for WorleyParsons.
Jackson added that direct current microgrids can save significant costs on equipment, installation, interconnection to the grid and operations.
“We anticipate many more such projects in the near future. Two areas where we see the greatest potential for these systems to bring disruptive value are electric vehicle charging and indoor agriculture,” Jackson said.
Engineering and procurement is underway. The team expects to begin construction in July and complete the project by the end of December.
Leclanché and consortium back new German battery manufacturer
Swiss energy storage company Leclanché plans to participate in an industrial consortium that will support and operate a new research and industrial manufacturing plant for lithium-ion cells in Germany.
The Battery Cell Research Production Centre is being launched by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research and will receive an investment of 500 million euros. The batteries will be used for both electric vehicles and energy storage systems.
Leclanché is the largest cell manufacturer within the consortium. Others include BMZ Group/Terra E, Customcells, EAS and Liacon.
The facility is expected to help Germany and Europe minimize dependence on Asian battery manufacturers.
Will these nine states pursue 100 percent clean energy?
Once thought of as pie-in-the-sky, the 100 percent clean energy goal gained credibility in the US following California’s decision last year to adopt the target.
Now Environment America is working to convince governors in nine states to do the same. The national network of state environmental groups plans to make a push in Massachusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Michigan, Illinois, Minnesota, New Mexico and Washington.
Both Hawaii and California already have laws requiring 100 percent clean electricity by 2045.
Environment America points out that the goal is gaining traction, not only in states, but also among cities and businesses. One hundred US cities are on board, as well as 131 major companies, including Bank of America, Walmart and Anheuser-Busch.
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