Saint John Energy Launches Virtual Electricity Grid for Advanced Energy Testing
Saint John Energy has introduced a cutting-edge digital replica of its electricity network, creating a powerful new platform for testing energy technologies and exploring innovative solutions without affecting the live power system.
The publicly owned utility in Saint John, New Brunswick, announced the launch of a “digital twin” of its electricity grid. The virtual model mirrors the real-world network and incorporates near real-time operational data, allowing researchers, businesses, and developers to conduct experiments in a secure and controlled environment.
The initiative is designed to accelerate energy innovation by enabling users to evaluate new technologies, assess system performance, and test potential improvements before implementing them on the actual grid.
One of the first projects to utilize the platform involves a team of researchers from Concordia University. Faculty members and students will use the virtual grid to study residential retrofit strategies, helping to determine how home energy upgrades could impact electricity consumption, efficiency, and grid performance.
By providing a realistic simulation environment, the digital twin allows stakeholders to analyze complex energy scenarios while reducing risks and costs associated with real-world testing.
Utility officials believe the technology will support smarter decision-making, enhance grid reliability, and encourage collaboration between industry experts and academic researchers. The platform is also expected to contribute to the development of cleaner and more efficient energy systems as utilities adapt to evolving electricity demands.
The launch marks another step toward the modernization of power infrastructure, positioning Saint John Energy as a leader in the adoption of advanced digital technologies for energy management and sustainability.
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