CSIRO has officially launched its Centre for Hybrid Energy Systems which will research cutting edge renewable and hybrid energy technologies.
Image credit: www.csiro.au
According to CSIRO, the collaborative facility will serve as a hub for researchers and industry to “identify, improve and then tailor energy technologies” to meet specific requirements.
“Combining two or more forms of energy generation, storage or end-use technologies, hybrid systems deliver overall cost and efficiency benefits, compared with single source energy systems,” the CSIRO said in a press release.
“Configurations include renewable or non-renewable energy sources, electrical and chemical energy storage and fuel cells, often connected via a smart grid. The collaborative space will be used to share the benefits of emerging hybrid energy systems with industry and government to maximise the value of local energy sources.”
CSIRO Fellow Dr Sukhvinder Badwal said the world was experiencing a rapidly growing demand for hybrid energy systems based on increased availability of renewable and modular power generation and storage technologies like batteries, fuel cells, and household solar.
“These technologies are becoming cost competitive, but the key to greater use is to combine them in connected hybrid systems,” Dr Badwal added.
“By doing this, we can offer substantial improvements in performance, reliability of power, flexibility and cost.”
CSIRO’s project partner, Delta Energy Systems Australia, is a developer and manufacturer of environmentally-friendly electric vehicle, solar-supported, fast-charging technologies.
The company’s Director Allen Chao said they plan on embarking on a range of collaborative research projects with CSIRO in this field.
“The opening of the Centre for Hybrid Energy Systems will expand research in this area and marks a significant milestone to ensure the success of any industry cooperation,” Mr Chao said.
In addition to supporting research into renewable and hybrid energy technologies, the Centre for Hybrid Energy Systems will also provide education, testing and certification services for emerging storage batteries, hydrogen and fuel cell technologies.
