Canada Excellence Research Chair in Smart Electrical Energy Systems
Some say Canada's current electrical grid is inefficient, unreliable and incapable of accommodating variable renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. New, innovative approaches are required—presenting many exciting challenges in grid architecture, control and market strategies, sensing, and communication. At the University of Alberta, the Canada Excellence Research Chair in Smart Electrical Energy Systems will anchor the development of a world-class research centre. With the support of strong industrial engagement, the Chair will lead the centre in exploring ‘smart grid’ technologies, including bidirectional communication, to dynamically adjust power supply with fluctuating demand (while also accommodating variables in supply); optimize utilization; and provide better energy storage. The research will enable more effective use of Canada’s energy resources while enhancing service reliability and security.