AJAX, ON – November 25, 2024 –– Collaboration is at the heart of an innovative project between Elexicon Energy (Elexicon) and Western University (Western). The local distribution company (LDC) and university have joined forces to tackle dynamic voltage control issues for utilities and large customers with a promising, cost-effective solution.
Several industries in Canada and worldwide, such as petrochemicals, mining, and automotive, are critically dependent on the stable operation of induction motors. To prevent these critical motors from shutting down due to voltage dips, organizations typically utilize a static synchronous compensator (STATCOM).
The Elexicon and Western collaboration focuses on the application of a Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) as a STATCOM, as developed by Western Professor Dr. Rajiv Varma. The BESS-STATCOM not only enhances power quality but also offers an easier, faster-to-install, and lower-cost alternative to traditional STATCOMs, particularly benefiting utilities and large customers with voltage-sensitive equipment, such as motors.
Since May 2023, Elexicon and Western have been working together on software and hardware simulation studies to implement the BESS-STATCOM technology for motor stabilization. Dr. Rajiv Varma together with his graduate students, have been conducting research at Elexicon’s facilities, utilizing the LDC’s system data with the support of staff. Today, at Elexicon’s corporate headquarters, Dr. Varma and his students demonstrated for the first time in Canada the implementation of this innovative BESS-STATCOM technology.
This research is funded by the Electricity Distributors Association’s LDC Tomorrow Fund, Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, MITACS and supported by cash and in-kind contributions from Elexicon.
“Elexicon is very proud of its relationship with Dr. Varma and Western University,” says Lincoln Frost-Hunt, VP of Digital and Innovation. “It is a privilege to be able to support this groundbreaking research.”
“I am excited to see the fruits of this unique Western-Elexicon partnership, offering first-in-Canada breakthrough solutions to the energy industry,” says Ken Coley, Dean of Western Engineering. “My congratulations to the Western team led by Dr. Varma and Elexicon team led by Mr. Lincoln Frost-Hunt.”
The demonstration event showcased this unique partnership and highlighted the importance of collaboration as we tackle the challenges facing the energy sector.
About Elexicon Energy
Elexicon Energy powers life’s most meaningful moments. As the fourth largest municipally owned electricity distributor in Ontario, our vision is to empower the communities we serve and help customers seize opportunities to ignite a better future. We provide more than 180,000 residential and business customers with reliable and affordable energy services. Elexicon Energy is owned by five municipalities: the City of Pickering, the Town of Ajax, the Town of Whitby, the City of Belleville and the Municipality of Clarington. Learn more at elexiconenergy.com and follow us on X and LinkedIn.
About Western University
Western University is a leading research-intensive university, and a global community of individuals focused on making a change in the world today. Western is ranked among the top 1% of higher education institutions worldwide. From fundamental to applied discovery and other scholarly activities, our scholars advance knowledge that provides tangible benefits for the economic, social, health and cultural development of citizens in London, in Canada and around the world.
Media Contact
Jodi MacLean
Manager, Communications, Marketing and Public Affairs – Elexicon Energy
P: 289-387-1469 | E: jmaclean@elexiconenenrgy.com
