Carleton’s partnership with Hydro Ottawa is a crucial component of the innovative program in sustainable and renewable energy engineering. The program offers students a professional focus on energy generation, transmission, distribution and conservation through relevant industry partnerships.
With the opening of the Hydro Ottawa Laboratory for Smart Grid Technologies in November 2011, Carleton students can experiment with the emerging intelligent electricity infrastructure to learn about integrating alternate and sustainable power sources and improving the efficiency and reliability of the energy supply. A unique feature of the laboratory is its real-time monitoring, analysis and control capabilities, allowing the demonstration of self-diagnostics, self-healing and seamless-operation principles for the power grid.
“The teaching and research conducted in the Hydro Ottawa Laboratory for Smart Grid Technologies will help transform how Canadians receive, use and conserve electricity,” said Rafik Goubran, dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Design at Carleton University. “Hydro Ottawa’s commitment to optimizing energy use and promoting conservation in our community is reflected in the tools and opportunity it has given to Carleton students. I’m thrilled that this partnership is providing hands-on education for future industry leaders.”
This exciting partnership also allows students to visit Hydro Ottawa’s facilities and hear directly from leaders in the business about the challenges and opportunities facing the electricity industry.
“Leading utilities are integrating technology to create a smarter, more efficient electricity system that benefits customers and the broader economy,” said Bryce Conrad, Hydro Ottawa’s president and chief executive officer. “By partnering with Carleton University, we are empowering the leaders of tomorrow as they advance the knowledge and practical application of smart grid principles.”
