http://www.princeton.edu/main/news/archive/S33/55/56I53/index.xml?section=topstoriesmain/news/archive/S33/55/56I53/index.xml?section=topstories

The multi-year demonstration project aims to identify, develop and test new technologies within the electric delivery system that will help build a smart, more efficient grid, including the integration of smart grid architecture and measuring the effects of widespread electric vehicle adoption on the electric grid. GCN’s scope of work includes the installation and operation of a network of Smart Storage and Generation Units (so called GreenStations^TM) in the NYC distribution grid that communicates directly with Con Edison.

The GreenStations^TM include multiple PPS’ 100kW Grid-tied Inverters (GTIB’s) and Demand Response Inverters (DRI).  The PPS inverters will function as the interface between the electric grid and the lithium-ion battery system, allowing for smooth transition of power and support to the smart grid. “Partnering with PPS on the inverters allows us to fully focus our engineering manpower on the integration of sub-systems with our proprietary software and technology,” said GCN Vice President of Engineering Phil Gow.  He added, “GCN goes to great lengths to ensure that GreenStations^TMuse components that improve safety, cost, performance and reliability.  That is precisely what PPS brings to the table in terms of inverters.”

Installing electric vehicle charging infrastructure without additional support could negatively impact the reliability of the electric grid. “GCN GreenStations^TM provide crucial grid services and enable efficient vehicle charging and our inverters provide the critical link between the batteries, communication interfaces, charging equipment, and the electric grid, making smooth transitions and grid-interactive services possible, “ said COO & Executive Vice President Darren Hammell.”

About Green Charge Networks
Green Charge Networks (GCN), a leader in smart grid and energy storage technology, develops and operates intelligent systems to accommodate local demand for electricity under existing generation and storage capacity restraints. Working with utility companies as well as public and private sector organizations, GCN is equipping the nation with advanced technologies to reduce energy spending and achieve increased efficiency. Our technology uses existing grid infrastructure and enables value-adds such as electric vehicle (EV) charging. GCN is based in Brooklyn, N.Y., with offices in San Francisco and Huntington Beach, Calif. Learn more at GreenChargeNet.com.

About Princeton Power Systems
Princeton Power Systems, founded in 2001, is a manufacturer of advanced power conversion products

and alternative energy systems, with patented electronics that provide a more reliable and cost effective means for converting electric power cleanly and efficiently. The company has solutions for renewable energy, distributed power generation, and military applications. Princeton Power Systems products reduce energy consumption, lower peak electric usage, and provide clean, renewable energy sources with superior performance.
For additional information please contact:

Princeton Power Systems:
Amanda Scaccianoce
P: 609.955.5390 ext. 113
ascaccianoce@princetonpower.com

(December 19, 2011) PRINCETON, NJ – Princeton Power Systems (PPS) today uncovered its bi-directional high-voltage DC Transformer, a new technology used for transmission and distribution applications.  The transformer will function as a beneficial power management device, distributing power between two or more remote locations in Alaska.

The DC transformer, scheduled to be installed in early 2012, is the first of its kind allowing for economical transmission of power over DC power lines. Executive Vice President Darren Hammell states, “Reducing the cost of power transmission is beneficial for applications including offshore wind, hydropower generation, and  is critical for connecting communities in places like rural Alaska that do not have easy access to a conventional electric grid.”

In addition to the bi-directional capabilities of the transformer, it also dramatically decreases the cost of electricity by eliminating the need for small distributed diesel generators, currently used to power many rural communities. While AC power lines are more conventionally used for transporting electricity, the DC transmission line demonstrates more efficiency over relatively short distances and low power levels.   When interconnected with a DC transmission line, more efficient central generators and renewable generators can power multiple communities, adding redundancy and reliability to the power supply.

According to Chief Technology Officer Mark Holveck, “The HVDC Transformer has been the missing link in DC transmission systems at these power levels.  The technology we are demonstrating allows bi-directional power flow at high-efficiency so that it truly enables DC interconnections.”

The primary projects intended for the transformer are meant to transport power over distances of roughly 25 miles, but the transformer and DC transmission technology are capable of much greater and shorter distances. The transformer has a rating of one megawatt (1 MW) of power and can be installed in parallel for much higher power levels. With this technology’s ability to function over great distances, the transformer will be useful for sending power over large bodies of water, or large areas similar to the rough terrain in Alaska.

For additional information please contact:
Amanda Scaccianoce
P: 609.955.5390 ext. 100
ascaccianoce@princetonpower.com

(December 2, 2011) PRINCETON, NJ - Princeton Power Systems (PPS), announces today its Grid-Tied Inverters are being used as a power resource for the PJM Regulation Market.  The inverters, in conjunction with lead carbon (PbC) and lithium-iron phosphate batteries, will participate in two locations as 100 kW resources to enhance reliability and increase the efficiency of the grid.

Delivered today is an Energy Storage System capable of 100 kW of power and 26 kW hours, which are the minimum power and energy levels required to participate in PJM’s frequency regulation market.  The system includes the inverters, lithium-iron phosphate batteries, and the communications required to interface with PJM.

“Through the inverter and integrated Site Controller providing 2-way communication with the PJM system, our customers will be able to participate in multiple revenue-generating markets,” said Executive Vice President Darren Hammell. “These systems can be easily ramped to higher kw levels by paralleling inverters, and configured for more kWh’s and different storage technologies.”

The inverters are a unique aspect of the system as they are capable of working with several types of batteries and capable of multiple communication options, including the DNP3 protocol used by PJM. While the recent FERC regulation allows for a minimum of 100 kW, the inverters can be configured for anywhere as much as 1 MW or more.

About Princeton Power Systems, Inc.

Princeton Power Systems, founded in 2001, is a manufacturer of advanced power conversion products and alternative energy systems, with patented electronics that provide a more reliable and cost-effective means for converting electric power cleanly and efficiently. The company has solutions for renewable energy, distributed power generation, and military applications. Princeton Power Systems products reduce energy consumption, lower peak electric usage, and provide clean, renewable energy sources with superior performance.

For more information please contact:

Amanda Scaccianoce
ascaccianoce@princetonpower.com
609-955-5390
www.princetonpower.com

Darren Hammell, Executive Vice President of PPS, will give a presentation titled, “What is a Smart / Microgrid?” to help set the stage for discussions, based on PPS’ experience designing and implementing microgrids and ‘smart grid’ applications for both commercial and military customers; including the microgrid demonstration system currently in use by the US Army in Afghanistan.

Electric vehicles were one among the several trends discussed, as they are expected to increase in availability over the next 12-24 months — along with a subsequent increase in charging infrastructure including energy storage.

Darren Hammell will be presenting PPS’ Demand Response Inverter and SEGIS Program work, and sitting on the discussion panel, at the “EERE Sunshot/SEGIS/Hi-Pen Workshop” on Monday the 17th.

Darren Hammell, PPS’ Executive Vice President, stated, “Today’s demonstration culminates several hard years of work by many talented people at PPS and Sandia. Energy storage, communications, and controls are key advancements in making solar energy valuable to the electric grid, and making renewables part of our energy future; PPS is proud to be manufacturing advanced products to support these goals here in the United States.”

The DRI is the culmination of a three year joint effort between PPS, the U.S. Department of Energy, and Sandia National Laboratories’ Solar Energy Grid Integration Systems (SEGIS) team.  During the demonstration, PPS showcased features of the DRI that improve electrical grid interconnectivity and efficiency, enhance the performance of renewable energy systems, and allow for better integration of electric vehicles and distributed power generation.  PPS was awarded the contract in September 2010 following a competitive solicitation for the SEGIS program. The DRI was recently selected as a recipient of the prestigious “2011 R&D 100 Award,” which recognizes the most technologically significant products as voted by a council of technical experts.

PPS was formed in a dormitory room after its founding team won first place in Princeton University’s 2001 Business Plan Contest. The company, which has since grown from a staff of three to 50, is a leading manufacturer of advanced power conversion products and alternative energy systems, with patented electronics that provide a more reliable and cost-effective means for converting electric power cleanly and efficiently. The company’s new manufacturing facility in Lawrence is 40,000 square feet and features large manufacturing floors, multiple loading docks, and a large supply of configurable power to support PPS’ continued growth.
PPS has taken advantage of various resources offered by the State and Federal governments to support the development and commercialization of its products, as well as its continued expansion in the State.  The company most recently received $3.3 million through New Jersey’s Clean Energy Manufacturing Fund (CEMF) to help advance the DRI.   Administered by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, the CEMF was created to support New Jersey-based manufacturers of Class I renewable energy or energy efficiency systems, products or technologies. The program provides up to $3.3 million per awardee in two tranches, with up to $300,000 as a grant for project assessment and design, and up to $3 million as a low interest loan.

For more information, please contact:

Marta Loc

609.955.5390 ext. 112

mloc@princetonpower.com

Princeton Power Systems contributed the large-scale inverters for the system, for both the solar array and battery banks. Prior to deployment, the microgrid, including PPS’ inverters, went through seven training rotations over a three month span at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, California. The success of the testing ensured the systems’ readiness for harsh military environments.

Executive Vice President Darren Hammell said, “Along with our partners on this project, PPS is proud to help the US Army achieve its goals of improving personnel safety and decreasing costs through energy efficiency and alternative energy. We believe this demonstration will lead to many more deployments of these energy-saving systems on the battlefield and bases.”

The microgrid application is the first attempt by the Department of Defense to assess microgrid technologies in an operational environment. Decreasing the demand for energy on the battlefield is a key military challenge, as it will increase the energy efficiency of operations, limit the risks to troops, and reduce the amount of money spent consuming energy.

About Princeton Power Systems:
Princeton Power Systems, founded in 2001, is a manufacturer of advanced power conversion products and alternative energy systems, with patented electronics that provide a more reliable and cost-effective means for converting electric power cleanly and efficiently. The company has solutions for renewable energy, distributed power generation, and military applications. Princeton Power Systems products reduce energy consumption, lower peak electric usage, and provide clean, renewable energy sources with superior performance.

U.S. Army: Hybrid Intelligent Power Research and Development Program:

Hybrid Intelligent Power (HI-Power) is an OSD-sponsored program managed by PM-Mobile Electric Power. HI-Power intends to considerably decrease fuel consumption in tactical operational environmentsby using intelligent power management and integrating renewable energy technologies. Technology will incorporate source management, energy storage, power distribution and demand management. It will also include small and medium sized tactical versions for mobile forces and larger transportable systems for forward operating bases.

For additional information please contact:
Marta Loc
P: 609.955.5390 ext. 112
mloc@princetonpower.com