Imergy Power Systems, Inc. today introduced the ESP30 series, a new generation of vanadium flow batteries that dramatically lowers the cost and increases the performance and flexibility of energy storage systems for utilities, renewable energy projects, microgrids, and commercial and industrial customers. The ESP30 series has a power capability of up to 50kW and can store up to 200kWh of electricity. The power and capacity of the ESP30 make it well suited for a variety of demanding energy storage applications, including peak shaving, demand response, energy shifting, renewable energy firming, and microgrid or back-up power.
It is the first battery from Imergy to use secondary sources of vanadium like mining slag, fly ash, and other environmental waste. As a result of this technology and other developments, Imergy will be able to lower the cost of its flow batteries from $500 per kilowatt hour, already an industry benchmark, to under $300 per kilowatt hour.
The ESP30 modules measure approximately 6 meters (20' shipping container), with available energy ranging from 2 to 12 hours of output duration. ESP30 modules can be linked together to form Energy Storage Platforms (ESP) capable of delivering megawatts of power and storing megawatt hours of energy. The system provides power security (can operate in full islanded mode) and power quality (with fast response time for seamless power source transitions, load transients, and photovoltaic system firming).
The ESP30 also incorporates fast charge capabilities and state-of-the-art controls and electronics, and can be remotely managed using secure Linux- and Windows-based integrated dispatch optimization software. Customer deliveries of the ESP30 will begin in November in the United States and India for microgrid applications.
"This new model represents an exponential step forward in vanadium flow battery technology," said Bill Watkins, CEO of Imergy Power Systems. "The additional power capability and capacity of the new ESP30 series makes this battery one of the lowest cost storage options for solar arrays, wind turbines, and behind-the-meter grid applications. In addition, the minimum 20-year cycle life of the electrolyte and the residual value of the vanadium deliver a phenomenal value for the customer."
The ESP30 operates within a far wider temperature range than lithium ion or other storage solutions and is air-cooled. The storage duration can be extended by increasing electrolyte concentration and volume. Built in a modular fashion from replaceable components, the ESP30 has a lifetime that is effectively unlimited.
