Queen’s solar technology to provide heating and cooling for Novelis

Novelis and Queen’s University are delighted to announce a joint investment in an experimental solar thermal installation on the site of the Novelis Global Technology Centre (NGTC).

The new facility will be a unique configuration providing preheated water for various applications during the winter months and cooling, via a solar compatible chiller unit, during the summer months.

“In addition to providing a significant benefit to the NGTC site, the new system will provide a high profile example of the versatility and cost effectiveness of solar thermal technology and a symbolic representation of the growing collaboration between Queen’s and Novelis in areas of sustainable and environmental technologies,” says Mike Thomas, Director, Global Technology, Research & Development, Novelis.

The first phase of installation of a commercial array of solar absorbers will be completed by EnerWorks Inc. in July. EnerWorks is a London, Ontario-based developer and manufacturer of innovative renewable energy appliances, and a spin-off company of PARTEQ Innovations, the technology transfer office of Queen’s University.

The cooling unit will employ experimental systems designed by the Queen’s Solar Calorimetry Laboratory and will be operational in early summer 2009.

The Solar Calorimetry Laboratory (SCL), directed by Queen’s mechanical engineer Dr. Stephen J. Harrison, is focused on the design, analysis and modeling of thermal systems in the HVAC and solar energy fields. Efforts are directed at improving the thermal performance and energy efficiency of both individual components and complete systems.

“Our vision is that Innovation Park will feature a variety of technology demonstrations, ideally those in commercial applications, that showcase the blending of academic and industry strengths,” says Kerry Rowe, Queen’s Vice Principal, Research. “We are very pleased to have reached this agreement with Novelis so early in our partnership, and one which includes the products of a Queen’s spin-off company.”

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact Queen’s Senior Communications Officer Nancy Dorrance at 613-533-2869 or Communications Coordinator Lorinda Peterson at 613-533-3234.