Title: Renewable energy and smart grid principles integration into campus-wide energy strategy at the University of New Mexico

Authors: O. Lavrova; H. Barsun; R. Burnett; A. Mammoli

Addresses: Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA ' Physical Plant Department, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA

Abstract: With a significant percentage of Renewable Energy resources already installed and operational, the University of New Mexico (UNM) campus is identified as an excellent candidate for the implementation of Demand-Response strategies integrated with a modern grid management system. An Energy Control and Management System makes it possible for UNM campus to respond to grid signals in a centrally managed manner, although individual building control systems still perform local energy management functions. This hierarchical response strategy is a model for future grid-interoperable entities of all sizes. We address the existing potential for the UNM campus to interoperate with the outside world and the possibility of altering the electricity use based on external requests from the grid. We also identify infrastructure and information technology improvements that would result in a substantially increased level of interoperability.

Keywords: smart grids; smart buildings; energy management; photovoltaics; campus-wide strategies; energy strategies; University of New Mexico; USA; United States; higher education; universities; demand-response strategies; grid management systems; energy control; grid signals; centrally managed systems; building control systems; local energy management; hierarchical responses; grid-interoperable entities; interoperation; electricity usage; external requests; infrastructure improvements; ICT; information technology; communications technology; interoperability levels; policy; solar energy; renewable energy.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTPM.2012.046927

International Journal of Technology, Policy and Management, 2012 Vol.12 No.2/3, pp.212 - 232

Published online: 31 Dec 2014 *

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