Alfred University’s Advanced Power Grid Lab set to receive cutting-edge equipment
Alfred University’s GE Vernova Advanced Power Grid Laboratory is set to receive a state-of-the-art grid control and distributed energy system on April 15, marking a significant milestone in the university’s efforts to lead research in renewable energy integration, microgrid technology, and grid modernization.
This new equipment, developed by EDIBON, will enhance Alfred University’s ability to conduct advanced research on distributed energy resources (DERs) and energy storage. The system includes components for solar, wind, hydro, fuel cells, syngas generation, hydrogen separation, and advanced battery and non-battery storage solutions. These capabilities will allow 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.
“The arrival of this cutting-edge technology solidifies Alfred University’s position at the forefront of power grid research,” said Dr. John Simmins ’84, PhD ’90, director of the new laboratory, “With this new system, our students and researchers will have hands-on experience working with the latest industry-standard equipment, contributing to national efforts to build a smarter, more resilient, and sustainable grid.”
John Simmins ’84, PhD ’90, director of Alfred University’s new Advanced Power Grid Lab.
GE Vernova Advanced Power Grid Lab, unveiled last spring, is part of a workforce development initiative that will prepare students for careers in the growing renewable energy industry. It is supported by a $466,853 grant from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and $2.8 million in software licenses donated by GE Vernova.
The new equipment is part of the university’s initiative to establish an Advanced Integration Laboratory for Distributed Generation and Storage, which will serve as a research hub for testing communication protocols, control algorithms, and system interoperability for grid-connected and islanded microgrids. The lab will benefit students in the Alfred University Inamori School of Engineering’s Renewable Energy Engineering and Electric Engineering programs by providing them with access to state-of-the-art equipment and training. It will also support collaborations with industry partners, utilities, and government agencies working on renewable energy integration.
The system’s arrival on April 15 will be marked by an event showcasing its capabilities, with faculty, students, industry leaders, and government representatives in attendance. Demonstrations will include real-time monitoring of energy generation, storage, and demand response coordination using the new Microgrid Control Center (MGCC) and SCADA-based energy management system.