Case Study

DC Microgrid - University of Toronto

DC Microgrid - University of Toronto

The Advisian Smart & Distributed Energy team is working alongside Worley colleagues on the discovery, design, and delivery of this microgrid system for the University of Toronto that will increase energy efficiency and support energy systems research.

Overview

The University of Toronto’s goals for the project included:

  1. Increase power resilience and reliability
  2. Decrease energy costs
  3. Focus on and optimize electric vehicle (EV) charging technology
  4. Enable research and development of new energy management software.

Unlike any other microgrid project, the university had a unique vision grounded in the ability to conduct research and development. 

Our approach

The project showcases the combined expertise of Advisian’s technical consulting with Worley’s engineering and project delivery.  

  • Technology vetting for power conversion system (PCS)
    The winning technology for this project was available from only one small startup company. We helped identify and verify the patented microgrid technology provided by ARDA Power, including an examination of the assembly space, hardware, and software.

  • Battery storage sizing optimization analysis
    We reviewed the battery energy storage system (BESS) providers and sizing to ensure delivery of the university’s unique vision and focus on EV charging optimization.

  • EPC work for an innovative direct current (DC) microgrid solution
    Worley designed the solution that properly integrated with the existing solar system including its engineering, supply procurement, installation and commissioning. 

The results

This project will see an entirely DC microgrid system installed at the university. The microgrid will couple energy supplied by the grid and rooftop solar power with a lithium-ion battery and DC loads. The control architecture and overall design will focus on optimizing EV-charging technology.  The University of Toronto laboratory will use the customized system to develop and test new energy management software for various approaches to EV charging.