Grant: Alliance Grants

The core technology that drives modern communication runs on both DC and AC power, since there are both AC and DC loads in modern communication systems. Thus, both AC and DC power distributions are required. The reliability of the system is of paramount importance as there are very strict requirements on the system availability. Thus, the availability and regulation of the DC distribution and AC distribution must be ensured. The main objective of this research is to develop a hybrid nano-grid tailored for powering remote wireless communication systems. The main features of the proposed nano-grid include its robustness during harsh transients and its fault tolerant structure (i.e., the AC and DC buses do not collapse in the case of component failures, and the system can tolerate some individual failures without seriously compromising the function of the system as a whole). The proposed NSERC Alliance project promises to develop a novel hybrid nano-grid that will be well-suited for remotely located systems where the utility grid is not available. Through prototype development for the proposed nano-grid, this Alliance Project will help bring about next-generation energy solutions for remotely located communities.