DTE Energy Technologies, Detroit, Mich., and iPower Technologies (a joint venture between Delco Remy International, Anderson, Ind., and AeroVironment, Monrovia, Calif.) have signed an agreement to produce and market a new family of distributed generation systems.
These stand-alone, 75kW and 150kW units combine an efficient engine and electrical generator with electronic controls to produce full-time power for small factories and businesses. In addition, the units may allow owners to resell excess energy back to the on-grid utility company.
“These newly designed systems are highlighted by their high-efficiency levels, continuous operation characteristics, and flexibility to operate independently or in parallel to the existing electrical grid,” says Jack Combes, president of iPower Technologies.
The target market for iPower's distributed generation products are facilities requiring 10kW to 200kW power output, such as high-end residential, commercial, and light industrial sites. Demonstration units will be available on the market in the fourth quarter of 2001, with full production beginning in the second quarter of 2002.