News

Grid-Scale Pole-Mounted Energy Storage System

July 04, 2017 by Jeff Shepard

A pole-mounted energy storage system located in Toronto's North York neighborhood is showing positive results in the early stages of a pilot program. Put into service in August 2016, this unique energy storage system is mounted to the top of an existing hydro pole. The system stores energy during off-peak hours and releases power as needed.

The project team is currently monitoring how the technology responds to real-time data. From initial results, the energy storage system has demonstrated an ability to reduce strain on the local transformer. The pilot continues to run and, if successful, it could become a standard that's rolled out with all new installations on the over 175,000 poles across the city.

Toronto Hydro is exploring energy storage as a way to extend the lifespan of some of its equipment. This energy storage device can also act as a temporary source of backup power during outages.

This innovative project was made possible with support from Ontario's Smart Grid Fund, which helps those on the leading edge of the smart grid industry to test their grid modernization solutions in real world settings. The unit was developed by Ryerson University and piloted by Toronto Hydro using eCAMION battery technology.

Each pole-mounted unit is able to store the equivalent energy of approximately 2,100 smartphone batteries. This energy storage system is unique because it doesn't have a footprint – it's attached to existing power poles

"This is another example of a creative and innovative energy storage system being installed on our grid. We're focused on supporting collaborative projects like this one as it contributes to an integrated electricity system better designed to handle peak demand and improve reliability for our customers," commented Anthony Haines, President and CEO, Toronto Hydro.

"Ryerson University's Centre for Urban Energy is pleased to have developed the world's first pole-mounted energy storage unit in collaboration with Toronto Hydro and eCAMION. The project showcases how the use of energy storage and smart grid technologies can enhance distribution system performance and reduce asset upgrade costs. It is a true made-in-Toronto success story," claimed Bala Venkatesh, Academic Director, Centre for Urban Energy at Ryerson University.

"The early results of the pilot are very encouraging and the energy storage unit is performing well. Our collaboration with Toronto Hydro and Ryerson's Centre for Urban Energy has been very beneficial in helping launch this innovative product on a large-scale grid," stated Carmine Pizzurro, President, eCAMION Inc.