Alfred University Advances Renewable Energy Research with Cutting-Edge Power Grid Lab
Key Ideas
- Alfred University's GE Vernova Advanced Power Grid Laboratory is receiving a state-of-the-art grid control and distributed energy system to boost research in renewable energy integration and grid modernization.
- The new equipment by EDIBON includes components for solar, wind, hydro, fuel cells, syngas generation, hydrogen separation, and energy storage solutions, enabling advanced research on distributed energy resources.
- This initiative is supported by grants from NYSERDA and software licenses donated by GE Vernova, aiming to prepare students for careers in the renewable energy sector and contribute to a smarter, more sustainable grid.
- The Advanced Power Grid Lab will serve as a research hub for testing communication protocols, control algorithms, and system interoperability for grid-connected and islanded microgrids, benefiting students, industry partners, and government agencies.
Alfred University's GE Vernova Advanced Power Grid Laboratory in Alfred, United States, is set to receive a state-of-the-art grid control and distributed energy system on April 15. This installation signifies a significant step in the university's commitment to leading research in renewable energy integration, microgrid technology, and grid modernization. The new equipment, developed by EDIBON, will provide the university with enhanced capabilities to conduct advanced research on distributed energy resources (DERs) and energy storage.
The system includes components for various renewable energy sources like solar, wind, hydro, fuel cells, syngas generation, hydrogen separation, as well as advanced battery and non-battery storage solutions. These features will enable the university to simulate and test real-world grid scenarios, accelerating innovation in virtual power plant (VPP) technology, demand response strategies, and DER control protocols.
Dr. John Simmins, the director of the Advanced Power Grid Lab, highlighted the importance of this cutting-edge technology in solidifying Alfred University's position in power grid research. This initiative aims to prepare students for careers in the renewable energy industry by offering hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment.
Supported by grants from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and software licenses from GE Vernova, the new equipment is part of the university's goal to establish an Advanced Integration Laboratory for Distributed Generation and Storage. This lab will serve as a research hub for testing communication protocols, control algorithms, and system interoperability for grid-connected and islanded microgrids.
The arrival of the system on April 15 will be celebrated with an event showcasing its capabilities. Demonstrations will include real-time monitoring of energy generation, storage, and demand response coordination using the new Microgrid Control Center and SCADA-based energy management system. The Advanced Power Grid Lab will not only benefit students but also foster collaborations with industry partners, utilities, and government agencies working on renewable energy integration.