Renewable energy and smart grid principles integration into campus-wide energy strategy at the University of New Mexico

Abstract

With a significant percentage of Renewable Energy resources already installed and operational, the University of New Mexico (UNM) campus is identified as an excellent candidate for the implementation of Demand-Response strategies integrated with a modern grid management system. An Energy Control and Management System makes it possible for UNM campus to respond to grid signals in a centrally managed manner, although individual building control systems still perform local energy management functions. This hierarchical response strategy is a model for future grid-interoperable entities of all sizes. We address the existing potential for the UNM campus to interoperate with the outside world and the possibility of altering the electricity use based on external requests from the grid. We also identify infrastructure and information technology improvements that would result in a substantially increased level of interoperability.