research

BURNABY, BC: On December 19, 2006, the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) and BC Hydro showed the power of partnership as the two parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding to research existing and emerging energy technologies in a project called the Distributed Power Connections Study.

The primary objective of the study is to analyze the impact of electric Distributed Generation (DG) technologies on the BC Hydro grid. The study will also facilitate the analysis and demonstration of near-ready for market energy technologies and consumer-ready energy technologies.

Over the course of the project, two DG systems incorporating photovoltaic (PV) cell and fuel cell power generation technologies are proposed to be installed and demonstrated in a residentially configured test home, which is located at BCIT's Burnaby campus.

"This project is significant for BCIT," says John English, Dean of BCIT's School of Construction and the Environment. "The study will be a launch pad for BCIT and BC Hydro to collaboratively develop appropriate courses and programs to form part of the Institute's innovative, industry-driven programming at the certificate, diploma and bachelor's levels. It will also help raise awareness about renewable and alternative technologies and the issues around sustainable development and environmental stewardship."

BC Hydro will be the lead proponent in the study while BCIT will provide the test home facility, and technical and engineering services.

"BC Hydro is proud to partner with BCIT on this important study," says Ralph Zucker, Director, Asset Investment and Reliability at BC Hydro. "The results of this analysis will provide us with key insights on the impact of alternative energy technologies as we work to provide reliable, low-cost power to British Columbians for generations to come."

BCIT's School of Construction and the Environment is the largest school within BCIT. Its primary interest is in the natural environment, the built environment, and the relationship between them.