Red Deer Polytechnic is expanding its leadership in clean energy innovation, thanks to a $600,000 donation from the RBC Foundation. The funds will support the creation of a new Energy Test Hub located within the Polytechnic’s Energy Innovation Centre.
This new facility includes a flexible microgrid where students and researchers can test emerging energy technologies like solar photovoltaic systems, wind turbines, electric vehicle charging stations, and battery storage.
“Energy Innovation is a key area of focus for Red Deer Polytechnic. Through our Energy Innovation Centre, we are working with industry partners, RDP students, faculty and researchers to develop, adopt and implement new technologies and processes that are economically and environmentally beneficial,” said Stuart Cullum, President of Red Deer Polytechnic.
The Energy Test Hub is expected to engage more than 2,500 students and 100 industry partners over the next five years. It will serve as a hands-on learning environment, preparing students for careers in a rapidly evolving energy sector.
“As the country transitions towards a net-zero economy, developing green skills is becoming increasingly important,” said Kirk Muise, RBC Regional President, Alberta & Territories. “The Energy Test Hub will be critical to helping RDP students succeed in the hundreds of thousands of new jobs predicted to be added in these fields.”
For students like Akshun Chauhan, a Computer Programming Diploma graduate now working in the Energy Innovation Centre, the new facility represents a major opportunity.
“When I first started my studies in computer programming, I never imagined that I’d find myself working in power systems, energy, and development,” said Chauhan. “Working with industry partners on applied research projects here at RDP has not only strengthened my technical abilities but has also helped me build a professional network and given me the confidence to pursue a future in energy and innovation.”
In recognition of the RBC Foundation’s support, RDP has named the RBC Solar Walkway — a solar-panel-covered path that connects the Polytechnic’s main building to the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre.
Red Deer Polytechnic has committed to becoming a Net Zero Energy campus by 2031 and a Net Zero Carbon campus by 2041. With nearly 4,200 solar panels already installed, a Combined Heat and Power Unit, and strong industry partnerships, RDP continues to push forward as a provincial leader in clean energy and sustainability.
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