Energy storage batteries
Axeon’s battery technologies have wide potential application in the growing energy storage sector.
Grid energy storage refers to the methods used for large-scale electricity storage within an electrical power grid. Electrical energy is stored during times when production (from power plants) exceeds consumption and these stores are then used at times when consumption exceeds production. In this way, electricity production need not be drastically scaled up and down to meet momentary consumption; instead production is maintained at a more constant level. This has the advantage that fuel-based power plants (i.e. coal, oil, gas) can be more efficiently and easily operated at constant production levels.
Energy storage is also relevant to renewable energy sources. Renewables, such as photovoltaic cells and wind turbines, are by their nature intermittent energy sources and therefore require storage. Battery systems can play a role here in stabilizing power distribution networks.
Axeon is able to meet energy storage requirements through:
- Understanding and experience of large capacity batteries
- Flexible design and manufacturing capabilities
- In-depth cell chemistry knowledge and partnerships with key cell suppliers
Energy Storage applications have very diverse markets:
- Microgeneration. Axeon is developing 10-15KWh batteries for use in home solar energy storage and batteries for off-grid lighting solutions. These can be deployed in both developed and developing countries..
- Community energy storage: up to 1MWh
- Utility level - MWs of stored power. This could be used for large wind farms or large-scale photovoltaics, for standby storage or load levelling. Battery systems connected to large solid-state converters can be used to stabilize power distribution networks.
- Load levelling and local energy storage. Demand for electricity from consumers and industry constantly changes. Smart grid introduction may offer lower tariffs when demand is weakest. Local energy buffering will allow energy consumers to purchase at the most economic time and consume at any time. Batteries will enable these new applications..
- Marine applications such as hybrid ferries, where an electric drive is powered by batteries. This will result in reducing emissions, improving fuel efficiency and reducing maintenance cost.