ABB said that the SVC Light with Energy Storage combines energy storage capability with its SVC Light technology. This approach is expected to alleviate many of the concerns related to the addition of wind power and solar energy generation to existing grids by helping to level out intermittent production and support demand response.
ABB is targeting the SVC Light with Energy Storage concept at industrial, distribution and transmission level energy storage applications.
It offers a fully integrated system for installations that require the continuous voltage control and frequency regulation essential for grid stability combined with short term power support to cover load or supply variations.
The SVC Light with Energy Storage will store power from renewable energy sources and surplus power from the grid in its Saft Li-ion battery system.
At times when the level of renewable power available falls, such as when the wind drops or PV panels are obscured by cloud, or whenever a peak in power consumption occurs, the system will inject the power required to provide controlled ramping and to maintain a stable grid.
Saft claimed that the use of its modular Li-ion battery technology makes the concept’s ability to store energy highly scalable. Currently, rated power and capacity are in the range of 20MW for minutes to tens of minutes.
However, up to 50MW for 60 minutes and beyond is possible, according to the company.
Saft modular Li-ion battery technology includes cycling capability of 3,000 cycles at 80% depth of discharge or 1 million cycles at 3% depth of discharge, and a self-diagnostic design.
Further the company added that it also offers high energy density, millisecond-level response time and high power capability – both in charge and discharge. Saft’s Li-ion technology also provides information on the battery’s state of charge (SOC).
An array of battery modules provide the necessary rated DC voltage and storage capacity for each installation. Paralleling within the battery provides a fault tolerance and ensures system availability.
In addition to the development and supply of the battery system, Saft is collaborating with ABB in qualification and field testing of the SVC Light with Energy Storage system. The first trial installation is already underway in part of the UK distribution grid.
