Energy Innovation
Energy Innovation Centre
Creating solutions for industry through applied research & education in alternative and renewable energy systems.
Two key factors drive today's increasing market for renewable energy systems, aligning with Canada's 2050 net-zero economy goals:
- declining costs of new technology
- the desire to address climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions
The Energy Innovation Centre is both a physical and digital platform that demonstrates how new energy technologies work together effectively. We aim to:
- Enhance community knowledge through demonstrations of integrated renewable energy systems
- Deliver relevant local data while collaborating with companies to develop innovative, clean solutions
- Provide our advanced facilities for both industry training and student education
Meeting Today's Energy Innovation Needs
Our province requires increased innovation and research to extend our traditional energy expertise into the expanding clean technology sector. Red Deer Polytechnic has the infrastructure and partnerships to lead this important transition.
The Energy Innovation Centre connects RDP's high-efficiency systems with applied research and educational opportunities, helping accelerate the adoption of renewable energy technologies throughout Alberta.
Applied Research Services
The Energy Innovation Centre provides expert knowledge on renewable energy design and effectiveness to help companies incorporate clean energy solutions through:
- Energy analysis and system integration studies
- Data analytics and power system simulation
- Equipment testing and technology validation
Our Alternative Energy Lab supports regional innovators with hands-on research capabilities. We analyze real-time data from RDP's energy systems to assess production, integration, and distribution effectiveness.
Partner with us to advance your sustainable energy goals.
Cutting-Edge Energy Training for Your Workforce
More than 1,000 students in programs such as Electrician, Instrumentation and Control Technician, Carpenter, & Solar Photovoltaic Systems engage within the AEL each year.
Customized Training Programs
Energy technology is rapidly evolving, including:
- Combined heat and power systems
- Electric vehicles
- Solar, geothermal, and biomass resources
- Energy storage solutions
Plus, smart systems integrate data analytics, AI, machine learning, and IoT to efficiently manage complex energy networks.
With flexible delivery options, we can bring training to you or welcome your team to our advanced facilities.
Alternative Energy Lab
Hands-On Renewable Energy Training in Alberta
The Alternative Energy Lab (AEL) offers cutting-edge research and educational opportunities for students and industry in sustainable energy technologies. This facility forms a key component of RDP's Green Campus Initiative, which includes nearly 4,200 solar panels installed across three campus buildings:
- New student residence
- Gary W Harris Canada Games Centre
- The AEL itself
Advanced Learning Environment
The 5,274-square-foot lab creates an exceptional space for solar energy and renewable technology education & training with:
- Large open learning area, adaptable for emerging energy technologies
- Multiple project rooms and large equipment storage
- Interactive energy production trainers and teaching-focused Combined Heat and Power unit
- LEED Silver certification featuring both active & passive solar design
Real-World Solar Power Experience
Roof-mounted photovoltaic panels provide students and researchers with hands-on experience studying solar energy generation. The lab captures real-time data about installation performance and seasonal variations, giving students practical insights into renewable energy systems.
Researchers also analyze data from RDP's other alternative energy sources, developing skills in renewable energy assessment and integration.
Mirrored Technology Approach
The lab employs mirrored technology that replicates real-world energy production systems. This includes two Combined Heat and Power units - one powering the campus outside the lab and a smaller teaching unit inside, where students gain practical experience on similar technology.
Industry Collaboration
Red Deer Polytechnic actively partners with utilities, industries, builders, and manufacturers to drive applied research in energy innovation. These partnerships leverage diverse expertise to advance ideas that require collaborative input.
Supporting Industry Through:
- Providing Alberta-specific technology information and resources
- Collecting and sharing renewable energy performance data to create learning opportunities
- Offering specialized research services, including energy analysis, system integration studies, and equipment testing
- Creating physical & virtual learning environments for hands-on training in alternative energy systems
- Building strategic partnerships between industry, educational institutions, community groups, & government
- Developing energy literacy through education for students and stakeholders
Data Sharing Alliance Membership
As proud members of the Data Sharing Alliance, we collect and share solar array data to improve the understanding of system performance across diverse installations. This collaboration optimizes designs for Alberta's unique conditions, providing valuable benefits:
- More accurate predictions of renewable energy performance in specific locations
- Showcasing innovative array designs and options
- Benchmarking key metrics, including ROI, performance, & greenhouse gas reduction
- Optimizing grid integration with utility providers
In this three-part video series, Stuart Cullum, President, Red Deer Polytechnic and Janine Sullivan, President and Chief Executive Officer, FortisAlberta discuss
