PITTSBURGH--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Power management company Eaton today announced the launch of Intelligent Mobile Power Distribution System, a microgrid management solution engineered to enhance the efficiency, reliability and safety of military forward operating bases. The new system can transform independently operating generators into a demand-managed microgid. In initial testing at U.S. military base Fort Devens, the systems reduced fuel consumption in excess of 30 percent.
Intelligent Mobile Power Distribution System manages the output of generators as an intelligent system and is designed to provide adequate power to meet current demands, rather than inefficiently engaging all generators at all times. This can reduce energy waste and provide bases with enhanced power surety by preventing grid collapse caused by generator fault, and by shifting demand onto supporting generators for a reliable, safe supply of power.
“Reducing energy demand is a critical priority for the military with the potential not only to save revenue but to enhance the safety of our troops,” said John Stampfel, vice president and general manager, Electrical Engineering Services and Systems Division, Eaton. “By increasing the efficiency of onsite power Intelligent Mobile Power Distribution System can help limit the risks that troops face as they use, transport and store fuel.”
Demonstrating the impact of the solution, Fort Devens tested Eaton’s Intelligent Mobile Power Distribution System. Following the system enhancement, fuel consumption for a typical forward operating base was reduced by more than 30 percent.
“The success of Army missions and the security of our soldiers are dependent on reliable access to energy and water,” said Katherine Hammack, assistant secretary of the Army, Installations, Energy and Environment, during a panel at the Association of the United States Army annual meeting.
This dependence, and the threat it faces in military zones, has led the Army to pursue energy alternatives and resource management strategies.
Intelligent Mobile Power Distribution System is designed to be compatible with leading generator manufacturers to help simplify installation and enhance scalability for future power system expansion. Additionally, the demand-managed system can be further enhanced with optional solar and energy storage connectivity for seamless integration into renewable energy microgrid installations.
To learn more about Intelligent Mobile Power Distribution System and Eaton’s portfolio of power management solutions for government and military applications, visit www.eaton.com/government.
Eaton’s electrical business is a global leader with expertise in power distribution and circuit protection; backup power protection; control and automation; lighting and security; structural solutions and wiring devices; solutions for harsh and hazardous environments; and engineering services. Eaton is positioned through its global solutions to answer today’s most critical electrical power management challenges.
Eaton is a power management company with 2013 sales of $22.0 billion. Eaton provides energy-efficient solutions that help our customers effectively manage electrical, hydraulic and mechanical power more efficiently, safely and sustainably. Eaton has approximately 102,000 employees and sells products to customers in more than 175 countries. For more information, visit www.eaton.com.
