Energy
Hands‑on research, modelling and prototyping that help communities, startups and industry move energy concepts from idea to reality.
The Applied Energy Research team (AER) develops practical, sustainable solutions through solar energy research, advanced monitoring systems and data-driven analysis. We collaborate with startups, communities, municipalities and industry to reduce emissions, strengthen local resilience and bring innovative energy ideas into real-world application. Students contribute to our projects while gaining meaningful hands-on research experience.
Through grant-based research, we work with partners to advance low‑carbon technologies by testing energy hardware and software, analyzing performance data and supporting the development of new energy products and services.
Our areas of expertise
We help partners solve real world energy challenges through:
- Microgrid modelling and optimization
- Solar PV and storage simulations
- Load profiling and demand analysis
- Scenario modelling for resilience planning
- Printed Circuit Board (PCB) design and embedded systems
- Power electronics and controls
- Sensors, instrumentation and monitoring devices
- Rapid prototyping and hardware iteration
- Solar performance testing and validation
- Solar cell simulation and hardware characterization
- Monitoring and data interpretation
- Real time monitoring systems
- Internet of Things (IoT) instrumentation and dashboards
- Big data energy analysis
- Engineering mentorship for early-stage ideas
- Technical coaching for community energy initiatives
- Project scoping and feasibility work
- Workshops, training and applied learning opportunities
Equipment and facilities
Applied Energy Research Lab - Ivany Campus
Our lab is equipped to take an energy idea from concept to prototype. Capabilities include:
- Microgrid testbed with islanding capability
- Rooftop solar integration for real performance testing
- Grid-connected and off-grid scenario testing
- Energy storage systems and battery testing rigs
- Electronics prototyping equipment: oscilloscopes, soldering stations, PCB tools, embedded microcontrollers
- Data acquisition platforms and energy monitoring instruments
- Solar cell simulator for controlled testing environments
- Model kitchen for demonstration of applied microgrid controls
We work with you to model, test, validate and refine your ideas in a fully instrumented, controlled environment.
Projects examples
Solar cell simulator prototype
Building a controlled test platform to accelerate solar hardware developemt.
Greener grids through electric vehicle batteries
Testing the potential of EV batteries to support grid services and resilience
Town of Bridgewater energy management information system
A proof-of-concept system to help a municipality track and optimize energy performance.