At the Center for Sustainable Electric Energy Systems, faculty members are exploring methods to make electric power systems more cost-effective and secure through research on energy storage, microgrid systems and renewable-energy sources. They also are developing the architecture for future power distribution systems.

Housed in the College of Engineering & Applied Science, the center’s experts contribute to connected systems research in two ways: by factoring power concerns into IIoT connectivity solutions for individual companies and by applying gained knowledge to developing smart energy infrastructure.

Working with federal agencies and private companies, the center’s team identifies ways in which energy storage and conversion can help manage energy in diverse applications. For example, microgrids allow energy from green sources to be integrated into the nation’s power grid and also protect small locations, such as a factory or hospital, from power blackouts.