Projects

4 electricity meters

Challenges and Opportunities to Reach Net Zero Electricity in Alberta

Principal funder: Alberta Innovates

The project finds that Alberta can achieve cost-effective electrification and deep decarbonization by integrating high shares of renewables, supported by flexible generation, demand response, storage, and improved market design. It also shows that EV adoption and grid impacts are strongly shaped by pricing, infrastructure, and behavioral factors, with automation and well-designed incentives playing a critical role in enabling efficient system operation in Alberta.

Wind turbines on a hillside at sunset

Resilient and Clean Energy Systems Initiative

Principal funder: Alberta Technology and Innovation

This project advances Alberta’s energy transition by integrating grid modernization, electrification, and clean fuels through a province-wide partnership spanning universities, polytechnics, industry, and government. It shows that coordinated innovation across technologies and institutions can accelerate decarbonization, strengthen economic diversification, and position Alberta as a leader in resilient, low-carbon energy systems.

Alberta landscape

Reinforcing Canadian Energy Modelling Capacities: Enhancing Tools and Expertise for Canada’s Electricity and Renewable Energy Sector

Principal funder: Natural Resources Canada

The project develops open-source energy models and accessible datasets to support renewable integration, grid optimization, and evidence-based decarbonization planning across Canada. It also builds capacity by engaging policymakers, Indigenous communities, and local stakeholders, ensuring inclusive access to tools, data, and collaboration needed for the energy transition.

a plug is attached to an electric car

Active Charge Management of Electric Vehicles to Minimize Strain on Electricity Systems

Principal funder: Volt-Age at Concordia University funded by Canada First Research Excellence Fund

The project focuses on addressing the high power demands of EV charging, showing that widespread use of Level 2 chargers can strain local distribution systems and increase infrastructure costs. It finds that shifting charging behavior—particularly timing—can significantly reduce grid stress and support more efficient, equitable electrification.

electric car on a highway surrounded by trees

Field Experiments on Dynamic Charging of Electric Vehicles

Principal funder: Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC)

Details to come