TransGrid has unveiled a research-driven technological initiative aimed at developing methods for managing peak energy demand.
Located at TransGrid’s Western Sydney site, iDemand consists of batteries storing 400kWh of capacity filling a small shipping container, with solar panels installed on top as well as shading the centre car park.
Using lithium polymer battery technology for sustained power delivery, fast response time and relatively low maintenance requirements, the system has enough energy capacity to offset the equivalent of 40 households’ load at times of peak demand.
TransGrid has also developed an interactive web portal that shows live status updates of the system’s energy flow and storage, allowing for the download of historical data to assist research in demand management.
A research tour and web portal was launched late last year, with academics and industry members invited to express interest in iDemand research agreements, with the aim of deriving the most value from the installation.
iDemand includes one of only several large-scale battery installations in the National Electricity Market, allowing for a unique opportunity in developing demand management alternatives to network investment.
