How George Mason University Created and Expanded Its Smart Grid Lab in Just a Few Short Years

Overview

George Mason University (GMU) embarked on an ambitious project to establish a cutting-edge smart grid lab to bolster its Electrical and Computer Engineering program. Spearheaded by Dr. Liling Huang, an Associate Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Dominion Energy Faculty Fellow, the initiative aimed to provide students with hands-on experience in modern energy systems, focusing on the emerging technologies driving the future of the power grid.

Project Goals

The primary objective was to create a smart grid lab that would not only enhance the learning experience for GMU students but also position the university as a leader in smart grid education and research. The lab was envisioned as a dynamic environment where students could engage with real-world energy systems, understand the complexities of smart grid technologies, and develop the skills needed to innovate in the field.

Discovery Process

To ensure the success of this initiative, we partnered with Dr. Huang early in the planning process. Understanding the importance of seeing a fully functional smart grid lab in action, we arranged for Dr. Huang to visit Buffalo State University in New York. This site visit was crucial in shaping the vision for GMU’s lab. During the visit, Dr. Huang had the opportunity to:

• Explore an Established Lab: Gain first-hand experience of the equipment, layout, and workflow within a working smart grid lab.
• Understand Equipment Capabilities: Delve into the specifics of the equipment used, focusing on functionality and educational value.
• Consult with Experts: Engage in detailed discussions with the professor managing Buffalo State’s lab, gathering insights on best practices, challenges, and potential pitfalls.

This discovery process provided Dr. Huang with a comprehensive understanding of what was required to create a world-class smart grid lab at GMU.

Phase 1: Initial Setup (2023)

With a clear vision in place, we collaborated with Dr. Huang to design a smart grid lab tailored to GMU’s needs. The initial setup in 2023 included:

• Two Basic Smart Grid Workstations: These Lucas Nuelle workstations provided the foundational tools for students to understand the principles of smart grid technology.
• Transformer Workstation: Sourced from Lucas Nuelle, this station allowed students to explore transformer operations within a smart grid context.

The initial lab setup was designed to be scalable, allowing for future expansion as the program grew.

Phase 2: Expansion (2024)

The success of the initial lab setup led to increased interest and additional funding. Dr. Huang, leveraging partnerships with industry giants Amazon and Dominion Power, secured significant financial support to expand the lab. In mid-2024, the lab was significantly upgraded with the addition of six advanced workstations from Lucas Nuelle:

• Wind Energy Workstation: Enabling students to simulate and study wind energy generation within the smart grid.
• Solar Energy Workstation: Focused on solar power integration, allowing hands-on learning in renewable energy.
• Two Microgrid Workstations: Covering Isolated Parallel and Standalone Operation, these workstations provided in-depth exploration of microgrid dynamics.
• High Voltage DC Workstation: Essential for understanding the role of high voltage direct current in modern power systems.
• Pump Storage Workstation: Simulating energy storage solutions critical for grid stability.

Challenges & Solutions

Establishing and expanding the smart grid lab presented several challenges, including the need for significant funding and the complexity of integrating diverse technologies into a cohesive educational environment. Through strategic industry partnerships and careful planning, these challenges were effectively addressed. Our close collaboration with Dr. Huang ensured that the lab was not only functional but also aligned with the latest industry standards and educational goals.

Outcome

The newly established and expanded smart grid lab at GMU now serves as a cornerstone of the university’s Electrical and Computer Engineering program. Students have access to a comprehensive range of tools and technologies, enabling them to explore and innovate within the rapidly evolving field of smart grid technology. The lab has also positioned GMU as a leader in smart grid education, attracting attention from students, faculty, and industry partners alike.

Conclusion

Our partnership with George Mason University in creating and expanding their smart grid lab demonstrates the power of collaboration between academia and industry. By working closely with Dr. Huang from the initial discovery phase through to the lab’s expansion, we were able to deliver a state-of-the-art facility that is now at the forefront of smart grid education. This case study highlights the importance of strategic planning, industry engagement, and a commitment to excellence in driving educational innovation.