U.S. Army Using Princeton Power Electronics for Microgrid Demonstration

PRINCETON, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Princeton Power Systems (PPS), in conjunction with the U.S. Army, is participating in a field-deployed “microgrid” demonstration system. The advanced microgrid application combines large-scale solar generation with a lead-acid battery storage system and smart controls. The project is part of the Army’s larger groundbreaking initiative to lower fossil fuel consumption on the battlefield.

“Along with our partners on this project, PPS is proud to help the US Army achieve its goals of improving personnel safety and decreasing costs through energy efficiency and alternative energy. We believe this demonstration will lead to many more deployments of these energy-saving systems on the battlefield and bases.”

Princeton Power Systems contributed the large-scale inverters for the system, for both the solar array and battery banks. Prior to deployment, the microgrid, including PPS’ inverters, went through seven training rotations over a three month span at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, California. The success of the testing ensured the systems’ readiness for harsh military environments.

Executive Vice President Darren Hammell said, “Along with our partners on this project, PPS is proud to help the US Army achieve its goals of improving personnel safety and decreasing costs through energy efficiency and alternative energy. We believe this demonstration will lead to many more deployments of these energy-saving systems on the battlefield and bases.”

The microgrid application is the first attempt by the Department of Defense to assess microgrid technologies in an operational environment. Decreasing the demand for energy on the battlefield is a key military challenge, as it will increase the energy efficiency of operations, limit the risks to troops, and reduce the amount of money spent consuming energy.

About Princeton Power Systems

Princeton Power Systems, founded in 2001, is a manufacturer of advanced power conversion products and alternative energy systems, with patented electronics that provide a more reliable and cost-effective means for converting electric power cleanly and efficiently. The company has solutions for renewable energy, distributed power generation, and military applications. Princeton Power Systems products reduce energy consumption, lower peak electric usage, and provide clean, renewable energy sources with superior performance.

U.S. Army: Hybrid Intelligent Power Research and Development Program

Hybrid Intelligent Power (HI-Power) is an OSD-sponsored program managed by PM-Mobile Electric Power. HI-Power intends to considerably decrease fuel consumption in tactical operational environmentsby using intelligent power management and integrating renewable energy technologies. Technology will incorporate source management, energy storage, power distribution and demand management. It will also include small and medium sized tactical versions for mobile forces and larger transportable systems for forward operating bases.