Mobile Generation Systems
As demand for electrical power continues to increase, both in the United States and around the world, so too does the need to supplement traditional generation infrastructure with mobile and distributed generation systems. Further, our increasing dependence on power for our communication and emergency systems requires innovation to enable appropriate responses to natural disasters and homeland security incidents, and to support the military. And with a unit the size of an air-conditioner able to power a building, this emerging technology could change the face of economic development in emerging nations, and offer a tool to help lift the world’s poorest countries.
With NextEnergy’s help, key Michigan stakeholders continue to advance the research and development of these technologies and systems.
If you are engaged in similar activities, contact us to ask how we can help you.
Electronic Power Control and Conditioning Module
With funding from the US Department of Defense, NextEnergy is partnering with Coffman Electric in Grand Rapids and Newkirk Electric in Muskegon to develop a system that controls and conditions electrical power generated in the field.
The module’s primary function is to manage the power quality of both the upstream generating assets and the downstream loads. EPCC promotes efficient generator fuel use, the seamless integration of alternative power sources, load control and the elimination of the flickers, surges that cause electronic equipment to fail. Prior to this initiative, no such system existed to reliably control power in the field.
EPCC can concurrently manage electric power from a variety of external resources such as conventional generators using diesel, JP-8 and other diesel fuel blends, fuel cells, wind power, solar power, power exported from vehicles including electric or hybrid electric vehicles, batteries and more. The resultant power is a continuous, transient-free electrical supply that is consistent and compatible with electronic-based system loads. Run any and all power sources through EPCC and the electricity is made smooth and consistent.
The EPCC program is now in the final testing of proof of concept prototype systems. The one-piece module is housed in an ISO container and can be lifted onto a flatbed trailer or loaded into a military transport aircraft. EPCC is designed to operate 24 hours a day with minimal maintenance. The module can be manufactured in a variety of sizes, from Tactical power levels at less than 200KW, to Main Expeditionary Base power levels between 250-500KW, to Installation power levels at greater than 1 MW.
This project is being executed in conjunction with the US Army’s Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC) and National Automotive Center (NAC), as well as the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA).
Renewable Energy Mobile Utility System
With funding from the US Department of Defense, NextEnergy is partnering with Titan Energy and the Defense Logistics Agency to develop an easily transportable, mobile generating system.
In any large-scale disaster – storms, fires, terrorist attacks – reliable electrical power is often the first casualty. But access to that power is critical to the response teams, where time lost can mean a difference of life and death.
REMUS provides utility scale electrical services powered first and foremost by a rugged and dependable diesel generator, but then also supplemented by wind power, solar power and a rechargeable lithium-ion battery system. The alternative power sources decrease the need for large amounts of diesel fuel, which is especially helpful in disaster areas and difficult-to-access environments.
The unit is easy to deploy, easy to operate, and easy to maintain. Its pre-engineered modular design permits flexibility never seen before in emergency response power generation technology.