The University of Toledo has announced that the ReliaFlex Advanced Power System is fully operational, giving the University a green data center that will significantly reduce its carbon footprint and increase its electric reliability. The new system has been operational for three weeks and has already saved $1,000 with the University’s current historically low energy rates.
The University’s Green Data Center will be the second of its kind in the nation and the first in Ohio. GEM Energy designed, developed, and commercialized the ReliaFlex system, using a $1 million loan from Ohio Third Frontier.
The University’s advanced gas turbine-based power system uses the technologies and packaging techniques that GEM Energy designed and implemented for the world-class, award-winning power system at Syracuse University’s Green Data Center in conjunction with IBM in 2010.
The University ReliaFlex system includes:
- Four C65 Capstone Hybrid Uninterrupted Power System Micro Turbines
- A Thermax USA exhaust fired chilled water module with hot water output
- An external battery system for 10 minutes of electricity
- Special environmental systems for hot and cold climate operation
GEM’s modular power system installed at The University of Toledo Data Center provides cleaner air, equivalent to removing 287 automobiles from the highway and generates electricity equivalent to the needs of 52 homes.
GEM Energy’s modular ReliaFlex system can be easily and quickly installed. All components of an integrated mission critical power system are contained in a pre-engineered system that can be shipped anywhere and connected to an existing infrastructure.
“As The University of Toledo strives to advance alternative energy research and commercialization, it is imperative that we also do what we can to reduce our carbon footprint. This project is an important part of achieving that goal,” said Dr. Lloyd Jacobs, UT president.
“Ohio is investing in technology while creating jobs,” said David Goodman, director of the Ohio Development Services Agency and chair of Ohio Third Frontier Commission. “This collaboration makes us a leader in advanced energy, and Toledo a destination for innovation, research and commercialization.”
Ohio Third Frontier, of the Ohio Development Services Agency, provides funding to Ohio technology-based companies, universities, nonprofit research institutions, and other organizations to create new products, companies, industries and jobs.
Hussien Shousher, president of GEM Inc., said, “We are pleased to deliver this exciting and efficient energy project to The University of Toledo, a leader in alternative energy research and commercialization. With the support of the State of Ohio and our key partner, Capstone Turbine Corporation, GEM Energy is proud to build such progressive, energy-saving projects in Northwest Ohio.”
