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Innovative technology developed by University of New Brunswick (UNB) researchers is helping NB Power create green energy solutions for the province.

Industry-leading wind forecasting research

The partnership between NB Power and UNB is pioneering industry-leading wind forecasting research created by UNB Professor Dr. Liuchen Chang. This forecasting will identify the best opportunities to use wind energy in homes and businesses. Nearly 1200 customers from around the Maritimes are already piloting intelligent technology that helps NB Power incorporate that forecasted wind onto the grid, maximizing the potential of a renewable resource known for its intermittent challenges.

“We’re extremely proud of the research Dr. Chang and his team are contributing to this game-changing project and the innovative energy solutions NB Power is helping to create as a result,” said University of New Brunswick President, Eddy Campbell. “Projects like this help New Brunswick get recognized on an international stage, and opens the doors for future innovations to be created in our province.”  

UNB's Wu Centre now powered by wind

The project is allowing heating and cooling systems at the Wu Conference Centre on the university’s Fredericton campus to be powered by wind energy. This technology pilot is part of an international award-winning project led by NB Power called Powershift Atlantic.

Sustainable energy solutions

“This partnership is resulting in one-of-a-kind research that will help further develop wind energy solutions for utilities around the world,” said NB Power President and CEO, Gaëtan Thomas. “It has already helped us better understand how to incorporate renewable energy onto our grid more effectively, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and furthering our goal of keeping our rates low and stable for customers.”

PowerShift Atlantic was launched in 2010 as part of the Government of Canada’s Clean Energy Fund. It is a collaborative research project led in partnership by NB Power, Natural Resources Canada, Saint John Energy, Maritime Electric, Nova Scotia Power, New Brunswick System Operator, the University of New Brunswick, the Government of New Brunswick and the Government of Prince Edward Island.

The research portion of the program is expected to wrap up in the fall after a full year of piloting this technology is complete. Once this is complete, NB Power will be able to use this data to determine if a business case is possible to introduce new products and services to New Brunswickers that utilize wind power. 

Dr. Liuchen Chang teaches and researches in UNB's department of electrical and computer engineering. He is the National Science and Engineering Research Council Chair of Environmental Design Engineering. 

Please contact Kelsey Seymour to arrange a media interview.