Utah DOT Super Capacitor Battery Backup System Upgrade
The Utah DOT super capacitor battery backup project helps the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) improve the reliability of its Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) infrastructure. UDOT selected Econolite’s super capacitor technology as part of a battery backup system (BBS) upgrade designed to maintain power at critical transportation sites.
Because Utah experiences extreme temperature conditions and remote infrastructure locations, UDOT required a backup power solution capable of operating reliably across a wide environmental range. As a result, the agency evaluated advanced energy storage technologies to replace traditional lead-acid batteries.
Project Snapshot
| Agency | Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) |
| Project Type | ITS Battery Backup System Upgrade |
| Technology | ZX Graphene Super Capacitor Energy Storage |
| Application | Backup power for ITS infrastructure and traffic management devices |
| Performance Goal | Reliable backup power during outages across extreme temperature conditions |
Key Project Outcomes
- Reliable backup power for critical ITS infrastructure
- Stable performance across extreme temperature ranges
- Up to 9+ hours of runtime during power outages
- Zero maintenance energy storage technology
- Up to one million charge and discharge cycles
UDOT selected Econolite’s super capacitor system after testing showed it could deliver more than 9 hours of reliable backup power while operating across extreme temperature conditions.
Utah DOT Super Capacitor Battery Backup Evaluation
In early 2024, UDOT’s Transportation Technology Group began research and testing to identify a battery backup system capable of supporting ITS devices during power outages. The solution needed to provide at least four hours of power while operating reliably in temperatures ranging from 0°F to 140°F.
Traditional lead-acid batteries often struggle under these conditions because they lose energy output at low temperatures and experience reduced lifespan at higher temperatures. Therefore, UDOT evaluated alternative technologies that could deliver improved durability and reliability.
Super Capacitor Technology for ITS Infrastructure
The evaluation identified Econolite’s ZX graphene super capacitor battery module as the best solution for the project. During testing, the super capacitor system delivered up to 9.25 hours of runtime while maintaining stable performance across the required temperature range.
Unlike traditional battery technologies, super capacitors store energy using electrostatic charge rather than chemical reactions. As a result, they provide consistent output, fast charging capabilities, and significantly longer operational lifespans.
System Integration and Monitoring
The super capacitor modules were integrated with an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) controller to support UDOT’s ITS infrastructure. These systems provide backup power for traffic management devices, including CCTV cameras and remote traffic management system equipment.
The system also includes a monitoring dashboard that allows transportation operators to remotely view system status and performance information. In addition, the dashboard integrates with solar-powered installations and existing charge controllers used at remote ITS sites.
Technology Used in This Project
- Traffic Signal Cabinets
- Traffic Signal Controllers
- Traffic Management Software
- Traffic Detection Sensors
- ZX Graphene Super Capacitor Battery Module
Operational Benefits
The Utah DOT super capacitor battery backup system provides several operational advantages for ITS infrastructure.
- Reliable power supply during electrical outages
- Stable performance across extreme temperature ranges
- Zero maintenance requirements
- Long operational lifespan of up to 30 years
- Up to one million charge and discharge cycles
These capabilities allow UDOT to maintain critical transportation infrastructure even in remote and challenging environments.
Supporting Reliable ITS Operations
By adopting super capacitor battery backup technology, UDOT improves the reliability and sustainability of its ITS infrastructure. The system eliminates the need for frequent lead-acid battery replacements while providing dependable power to essential transportation systems.
Following the successful evaluation, UDOT placed an initial order for Econolite super capacitor systems and plans to continue upgrading battery backup systems statewide.
Ready to Improve ITS Reliability?
Econolite provides intelligent transportation solutions that improve safety, reliability, and operational efficiency for transportation agencies.
Contact Econolite to learn how advanced ITS technologies can support your transportation infrastructure projects.
Explore Related Solutions
- Traffic Signal Cabinets
- Traffic Signal Controllers
- Traffic Management Software
- Traffic Detection Sensors
- ITS Professional Services
Econolite’s core intelligent traffic solutions:
Cabinets | Controllers | Software | Sensors | Professional Services
