With appropriate controls and monitoring systems this building and all others on campus could be integrated for additional efficiencies and advantages that go far beyond simply reducing electrical loads:

• All campus power generators and energy storage could be utilized more reliably and efficiently
• Buying and selling power over the grid could realize additional savings
• Researchers and students could use data from the campus grid for modeling software systems
• Researchers could develop proven secure and reliable dynamic load control systems
• Researchers could beta-test large systems developed elsewhere
• Researchers and students could explore cyber security technologies in new ways
• Researchers could further develop trustworthy validating systems

A partnership of researchers and campus power plant administrators* envision a way to very significantly enhance the role ILLINOIS has on the national stage of grid modernization, by using our own campus grid as a fully functioning and operational beta test site. ILLINOIS is unlike any other university, having an array of key complementary assets that make such an alliance compelling:

• A very significant financial commitment to improving campus energy infrastructure
• Diversified power generation capabilities (CHP, renewable energy sources)
• Significant energy storage capacity
• A for-profit university related organization that enables buying and selling electricity
• A microgrid with a single point of contact with the national grid
• Internationally recognized experts in computer science, electrical engineering, and bio fuels
• History of cooperation between academic and administrative departments
• Established institutes like the Information Trust Institute that are dedicated to developing trustworthy systems, validating systems intended to be trustworthy, cyber security, autonomous engineering systems, technical training and knowledge distribution.
• Established highly-trained support staff with a workload capacity for growth
• Strong reputation that draws top student talent; commitment to education excellence