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In 2024, our research focused on developing aggregation models for synchronous generators and grid-following inverter-based distributed energy resources (DERs) in distribution feeders to enable efficient transient studies. This work demonstrated that large numbers of DERs can be represented with fewer equivalent models while retaining essential dynamic behaviour, significantly reducing computational burden in transient simulations.

Building on this foundation, the 2025 phase of the project extends aggregation techniques to grid-forming inverter-based resources (GFM-IBRs). As grid-forming units are expected to play a pivotal role in future distribution systems by establishing voltage and frequency references, their accurate representation is critical for stability and protection studies. The goal is to capture their distinct dynamic behaviour within aggregated models, enhancing simulation tools and potentially supporting utilities in planning and operating resilient distribution systems with a higher share of advanced inverter technologies.

This work is supported by Hydro One through the joint NSERC Alliance and Mitacs Accelerate program.

CUE collaborated with Toronto Hydro and Power Advisory LLC, with support from the IESO Grid Innovation Fund and the Ontario Energy Board’s Innovation Sandbox, to identify solutions that will enable the utility to use the same demand response resources simultaneously to meet the capacity needs of both local and provincial grids. CUE developed nine tools and a virtual platform to implement a dual participation model, ensuring seamless coordination between the IESO (bulk system) and Toronto Hydro (distribution system). The real-time software stack is engineered for redundancy and resilience, running concurrently on multiple machines, interacting directly with cloud storage, and supporting secure remote access to maintain operations during outages. The overall goals of this program are to build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainability and foster innovation.

This project focuses on identifying and addressing the economic, regulatory and technological barriers affecting the deployment of energy storage technologies by electric utilities. Through this work, CUE aims to facilitate renewable integration, reduce capital-intensive grid upgrades, and enhance the intelligence and resilience of distribution systems. CUE is exploring new models for ancillary services and new methods for evaluating and compensating storage in distribution networks. This includes ongoing work on microgrid applications and their value to customers, DER vendors and utilities. This work is supported by Toronto Hydro through the joint NSERC Alliance and Mitacs Accelerate program. 

Climate change is accelerating the shift toward deep electrification, which will place significant additional demand on electric power systems. Anticipating these developments, this project focuses on designing methods and strategies for dynamic reconfiguration and feeder power management to address operational challenges that utilities, such as Tata Power-DDL, are likely to face.

In this context, CUE is developing a software tool designed to optimally operate sectionalizing switches while simultaneously leveraging the flexibility of other DERs, such as demand response programs and energy storage systems, to mitigate temporary overloading and enhance grid resilience.

The significance of this work extends beyond immediate operational benefits. It contributes directly to the broader objective of building a sustainable, electrified energy future by equipping utilities with practical tools and strategies to adapt to rapidly changing load profiles and the integration of new technologies.

It is supported by funding from a Mitacs Accelerate grant, in collaboration with Tata Power-DDL. This project is in the final phase and is expected to be completed in 2026.

As the world moves toward achieving net-zero emissions, deep electrification has become an essential step in creating a cleaner and more sustainable energy future, and building electrification plays a key role in that journey. Electrification involves replacing carbon-emitting energy sources with cleaner alternatives. In this effort, CUE is working to develop practical strategies and tools to address the challenges that come with building electrification.

This project focuses on finding opportunities to improve metering, building more accurate energy consumption predictive models, and assessing both the technical and economic feasibility of electrifying heating systems.
 

The 2025 CUE Clean Energy Expo was held in May with an attendance of over 70 guests. The event opened with remarks from Roberta Iannacito-Provenzano, Provost and Vice-President, Academic at ¹û½´ÊÓƵ, and featured a keynote from Sheikh Nahyaan, Executive Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer at Toronto Hydro, on grid modernization and electrification. Project presentations from Hydro One, Toronto Hydro and ¹û½´ÊÓƵ highlighted new research on DER modeling and demand response. CEZ startup companies, both current and graduated, also shared their experiences, and the 2025 Toronto Hydro Student Awards were presented.