A fourth-generation utility plant at Stanford University meets 88% of the campus and university hospital’s demand
The energy system of the future at Stanford University is a prime example of a fourth-generation utility system with energy storage. The Stanford Energy System Innovations project includes a central energy facility comprised of heat recovery chillers and thermal energy storage. Â
Designed for a peak load of 28,000 tons of cooling and 350 MMBtu/hour heating, the new systems replace a fossil fuel combined heat and power plant with electric drive heat recovery chillers that — along with standard chillers and gas-fired hot water generators — capitalize on daily heating and cooling overlap to meet 88% of the campus and university hospital heating demand with recovered waste heat. Â
Two million gallons of hot water and 10 million gallons of chilled water thermal energy storage provide load shifting to off-peak electric rates and accommodate high–demand periods. Together they balance heating and cooling loads with the heat recovery chillers. Â
SESI is 70% more efficient than the previous system, reducing carbon emissions by 75% and potable water use by 60%. A new 100 megavolt-ampere, 60 kilovolt:12.47 kilovolt substation allows flexible management of Stanford’s energy supply platform, 65% of which is derived from renewable sources. The energy supply, storage and distribution system is a testimony to the vision and values of a world-leading university committed to sustainable planning and living.Â
