Case Study: Trent University achieves over $1M/year in energy cost savings and provincial grid support with Ameresco’s 2.5 MW/5 MWh BESS

New cost-saving battery energy storage system at Trent will improve energy infrastructure and benefit provincial energy grid

Trent University partnered with Ameresco to further reduce campus emissions and strengthen its energy infrastructure while supporting the provincial grid. Facing rising peak-period costs and a goal to lower its carbon footprint, Trent engaged Ameresco under an Energy Performance Contract to deploy energy efficiency upgrades and an on‑campus Battery Energy Storage System (BESS).

Ameresco’s solution includes a 2.5 MW / 5 MWh BESS, replacement of aging switchgear, and a carport photovoltaic array with EV charging to store low‑cost, low‑carbon overnight energy and discharge during high‑demand periods. Ameresco estimates the project will cut Global Adjustment fees by more than $1 million annually, fund the installation and infrastructure upgrades, and help Trent (serving 9,000+ students) reduce greenhouse gas emissions while supporting Ontario’s grid.

Trent University

Tariq Al-Idrissi

Acting VP of Finance & Administration