A new campus power source is here
OGDEN, Utah — Four batteries, each about the size of a semi-truck, have been placed just east of Stewart Stadium near Weber State University’s existing electrical substation.
This new system will help power the Ogden campus.
The batteries’ primary purpose is providing day-to-day power, so the campus can use battery energy during peak demand times or seasons when power is most expensive. This strategy of reducing consumption during high-use hours is called peak shaving.
In the future, the batteries can also provide backup power during outages, which could eventually remove the need for about 30 diesel generators.
“This is a cutting-edge project, and Weber State is an early adopter of this technology,” said Jacob Cain, associate vice president for Facilities and Campus Planning. “Right now, we mostly see this used in industry, but we’re one of the first in the academic world to use it.”
Not only will the batteries reduce energy costs and bring WSU closer to its goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2040, it also makes campus more resilient. Cain said the Ogden campus could run on the batteries alone for two or three hours, if needed: “These are fast-acting systems — you could lose power in your office and you won’t even know it.”
The batteries were recently connected to the campus’ electrical grid and the first phase of testing is now complete. Cain said they’re already seeing cost savings.
The next phase of testing, which involves evaluating the batteries’ backup power capabilities, is scheduled for late spring.
Rachel Badali, Interim Public Relations Director
801-626-7362, rachelbadali@weber.edu- Contact:
Rachel Badali, Interim Public Relations Director
801-626-7362, rachelbadali@weber.edu