Does your building have a Tri-generator (electricity, heating and cooling) asset that is not compliant with current network protection rules or has become uneconomical or environmentally questionable due to its use of gas as a fuel?

The University of Adelaide’s answer for its Ingkarni Wardli Building (Faculty of Engineering) is the integration of the generator through a rectifier–inverter set-up with a DC-coupled battery.

PowerTec has been awarded the order to provide a customised PowerCache® system delivering the grid connection, inverter, rectifier, and battery systems, dynamically controlled by a PaDECS® microgrid control system. Local partner Sage Automation and others have been awarded the project management, building systems integration, and installation works.

The new system will enable efficiency-optimised grid-connected use of the tri-generator. PowerCache’s settable fault current and power control dynamics ensure grid compliance and operational resilience, while the battery provides optimal generator loading and a reliable operating reserve. Applications include demand reduction, export limiting, network voltage support and wholesale energy arbitrage.

Commissioning is expected to commence in January 2023.