Woodward 8440-1936 Next-Gen Hybrid Power Controller Accelerates Transition to Sustainable Energy Grids

LOVELAND, COLORADO – July 10, 2024 – Woodward, Inc., a global innovator in energy and industrial control solutions, has announced the release of its 8440-1936 Hybrid Power Controller, a breakthrough system engineered to optimize the integration of renewable energy sources with traditional power grids. Targeting utilities and microgrid operators, the 8440-1936 addresses critical challenges in balancing grid stability amid rising demand for solar, wind, and hydrogen-based energy.

Bridging the Gap Between Renewables and Reliability
The 8440-1936 combines Woodward’s legacy in precision control with cutting-edge AI-driven analytics to manage hybrid power systems seamlessly. Its dual-mode architecture allows real-time switching between renewable sources and fossil-fuel backups without voltage fluctuations—a persistent pain point in green energy transitions. Initial field tests at a California solar-battery-diesel hybrid facility demonstrated a 25% improvement in grid response time during peak load shifts.

“The energy transition demands controllers that don’t just react but anticipate,” said Dr. Elena Martinez, Woodward’s Director of Renewable Systems. “The 8440-1936 uses predictive load-balancing algorithms to stabilize grids even when renewables dominate supply—a first for the industry.”

Key Innovations Driving Adoption

• Adaptive Grid Resilience: Patented frequency-agnostic technology ensures compatibility with global grid standards (50Hz/60Hz), simplifying deployment in emerging markets.
• Cybersecurity Fortification: Complies with NERC CIP and IEC 62351 standards, featuring tamper-proof hardware and blockchain-secured data logs.
• Hydrogen-Ready Design: Integrates with electrolyzers and fuel cells, positioning the controller as a cornerstone for zero-emission power ecosystems.

Industry Validation
National Grid, piloting the 8440-1936 in a Massachusetts wind-diesel microgrid, reported a 30% reduction in fossil fuel dependency during low-wind periods. “This controller’s ability to prioritize renewables without compromising grid integrity is transformative,” said Priya Singh, National Grid’s Head of Innovation.

Analysts at BloombergNEF highlight the 8440-1936’s timing as pivotal. With global investments in hybrid power systems projected to surpass $90 billion by 2030, Woodward’s solution fills a gap in managing intermittent renewable inputs. “Utilities need agility to meet decarbonization goals—this controller delivers that,” commented BloombergNEF’s Senior Energy Analyst, James Carter.

Market Readiness
Available for pre-order starting Q4 2024, the 8440-1936 will ship with modular add-ons for geothermal and tidal energy integration. Woodward has partnered with Schneider Electric and ABB to co-develop turnkey solutions for smart cities and off-grid industrial sites.

As nations race to decarbonize, the Woodward 8440-1936 emerges as a critical enabler of reliable, future-proof energy infrastructure—proving sustainability and stability need not be mutually exclusive.

Notes for Customization:

• Focused on renewable energy integration and grid resilience to align with current sustainability trends.
• Technical specs (IEC 62351, hydrogen compatibility) cater to engineers and procurement teams.
• Partnerships (Schneider Electric, ABB) and pilot projects (National Grid) add credibility; modify as needed.
• Adjust timelines, quotes, or compliance standards based on regional/industry requirements.