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Toronto pole-mounted energy storage “showing positive results”

July 19, 2017 | By Anthony Capkun


Photo courtesy Toronto Hydro.

July 19, 2017 – A pole-mounted energy storage system that was put into service in August 2016 in a North York (Toronto) neighbourhood is “showing positive results” in the early stages of a pilot program, reports Toronto Hydro.

The energy storage system is mounted to the top of an existing hydro pole, and stores energy during off-peak hours then releases it as needed. The unit is able to store the equivalent energy of about 2100 smartphone batteries.

It can also act as a temporary source of backup power during outages.

SEE ALSO First-of-kind pole-top energy storage by Ryerson CUE and partners.

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“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,” said Anthony Haines, president & CEO, Toronto Hydro.

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

The utility adds it is exploring energy storage as a way to extend the lifespan of some of its equipment.

This project was made possible with support from Ontario’s Smart Grid Fund. The unit was developed by Ryerson University and piloted by Toronto Hydro using eCamion battery technology.


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