Reading Time: 2 minutes
Richardson Electronics, Ltd., a global provider of engineered solutions for renewable energy and power management applications, has announced a new supply agreement with TransAlta Corporation, expanding its customer base. Under the agreement, Richardson Electronics will supply its patented pitch energy modules, specifically designed for GE wind turbines and SSB platforms. TransAlta Corporation is among Canada’s largest publicly traded power producers, operating a broad portfolio of assets across Canada, the United States, and Western Australia.
As part of the deal, Richardson Electronics will deliver its ULTRA3000® and ULTRAPEM™ modules to several wind farms across Canada and the United States, with shipments expected throughout 2025.
These ultracapacitor-based modules serve as replacements for lead acid batteries in electric pitch systems used by various OEM wind turbine platforms. The Pitch Energy Modules (PEMs) are critical for storing and managing the energy needed to adjust turbine blade angles, ensuring optimal turbine performance.
Greg Peloquin, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Power & Microwave Technologies and Green Energy Solutions at Richardson Electronics, expressed enthusiasm about the company’s continued leadership in pitch energy modules and the development of new products like the ULTRAPEM™ series. He highlighted progress in modules for platforms such as Senvion, Suzlon, GE’s SSB platform, and Nordex, and noted that the collaboration with TransAlta has focused on delivering advanced technology solutions to support TransAlta’s success.
Daniel Layton, Supervisor of Soderglen & Lakeswind LTSA at TransAlta Corporation, shared his positive experience working with Richardson Electronics and their patented technology. He explained that pitch batteries are often seen as the weak point in electric pitch systems, leading to frequent maintenance and downtime. Seeking a solution, TransAlta partnered with Richardson Electronics, who provided an easy, plug-and-play ultracapacitor alternative requiring no machine modifications. After a cautious year-long trial across two sites, the upgrade proved highly successful.
Layton highlighted that the switch to ultracapacitors has significantly reduced downtime, minimized the need for frequent hub entries, and improved operational efficiency, especially under challenging weather conditions. He emphasized that this transition not only frees up manpower for more critical tasks but also boosts long-term revenue, backed by positive feedback from other wind companies that had made the switch earlier.
This highly positive customer feedback highlights the Company’s dedication to providing innovative solutions that help customers operate more efficiently, effectively, and with greater confidence.
Richardson Electronics will showcase its offerings at the CLEANPOWER show, taking place from May 19–22 at the Phoenix Convention Center in Phoenix, AZ, at booth #2564.
