TransGrid unveils iDemand energy management system

TransGrid, the operator of the high-voltage electricity network in NSW, has unveiled its new electricity demand management system iDemand. The research-driven, technological initiative aims to develop methods for managing peak energy demand, thus enabling a more efficient supply of energy to consumers.

Located at TransGrid’s Western Sydney site, iDemand consists of a 400 kWh capacity battery system filling a small shipping container. Solar panels, installed on top, double as shading for the centre car park. Using lithium polymer battery technology for sustained power delivery, fast response time and low maintenance requirements, the system has enough energy capacity to offset the equivalent of 40 households’ load at times of peak.

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. The portal is available at http://idemand.transgrid.com.au/.

TransGrid is currently seeking expressions of interest in iDemand research agreements from academics and industry members, in the hope that the system will enable learning and knowledge that will grow the market for demand management solutions.