Electric Distribution Systems
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Electric Distribution Systems originated in 1895 when the UNC Physics Department, directed by the Board of Trustees, built a power generator to service the dorms for student safety. Over time, the system was expanded to include all campus buildings, as well as the cities of Chapel Hill and Carrboro. In 1976, that portion of the system providing service to Chapel Hill, Carrboro and some nearby rural areas was sold to Duke Power, now Duke Energy. Today, Electric Distribution Systems receives power from the both the local utility provider, Duke Energy, and the UNC Cogeneration Facility. The electricity from both sources is delivered to three substations, all three of which are currently being expanded and upgraded. Upon completion of all upgrades by the end of March 2009, the substations will have a total power capacity of 250 megawatts, or approximately enough power for 26,000 homes. See System Demand and Capacity for more information. Each substation will be connected using an entirely new technology in high voltage swtichgear, Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS). This will be the first of its type on the Duke Energy system This special state-of-the-art switchgear technology provides the means to completely enclose the necessary high voltage conductors and switchgear inside housings that are insulated with a special gas, sulphur hexaflouride. These upgrades will provide signficant improvement in system reliability and some redundancy in the event of any system problem or failure while allowing for continual growth and expansion of the University power system. |
