Ice Energy, a leading provider of intelligent energy storage to the electric utility industry, recently announced a strategic relationship with Trane, a business of Ingersoll Rand and a global provider of indoor comfort systems and services, to develop and deliver energy storage-compatible, high-efficiency air conditioning solutions for commercial customers. Under terms of the agreement, select Trane rooftop models, ranging from 4-20 tons, will be shipped “Ice-Ready” by Trane for seamless integration and optimal performance with Ice Energy’s Ice Bear® energy storage systems.

The two companies will also work together to offer new, high-efficiency air conditioning systems to key national accounts and other customers who are building new or seeking to replace or upgrade their existing systems in conjunction with an energy storage installation.

Pairing high-efficiency Trane commercial packaged HVAC systems with Ice Energy’s distributed energy storage technology on small to mid-sized commercial buildings enables a change in how and when energy is consumed for air conditioning. The combined solution helps commercial customers reduce on-peak electricity demand, increase energy efficiency, and reduce their building’s environmental footprint.

The Ice Bear system stores energy at night by freezing water in an insulated storage tank. During the day it works with the Ice-Ready™ air conditioning systems to dispatch the stored energy to deliver cooling to the building, dramatically reducing the amount of electricity required on peak. During off-peak hours, the conventional HVAC system operates as usual.

Publication date: 01/17/2011