Gridtential Energy along with Electric Applications Incorporated (EAI) will develop a project of hi-tech batteries for U.S. homes; the project was awarded to these companies by the Consortium for Battery Innovation; batteries will be plug-and-play for secure and competitive energy storage systems.
Firstly, the project will combine silicon wafers, like in solar panels, with lead-based technology to develop high-voltage reference batteries. This would reduce weight and achieve a competitive performance against lithium-ion batteries, but at a lower cost.
Secondly, Gridtential in fact is a pioneer in the Silicon Joule technology; combined with the testing expertise of EAI, the batteries developed will specifically serve for the behind-the-meter energy storage applications.
Thirdly, this project is intended to advance and accelerate the adoption of energy storage systems in U.S. households; “as the new U.S. president drives forward climate change policies and the low carbon transformation of the economy,” company statement says.
Moreover, as the BTM systems are critical for decarbonization, projects like these that develop hi-tech at affordable costs, could boost demand. In fact, Wood Mackenzie predicted that in 2020 430MW of these systems would be installed, which was more than a 100% increase from prior year.
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Gridtential and EAI technolgy will boost demand for BTM storage systems
In addition, John Barton, Gridtential CEO, said. “Integrated PV-battery backup system is a fantastic application for Silicon Joule technology; due to its superior cycle life, low cost, also its safety, and recyclability; all of which are of utmost importance to residential consumers; and also, small business owners.”
Dr. Matt Raiford, Technical Manager of CBI, said. “This exciting partnership will delve into the performance of bipolar lead battery packs using sizing commonly seen in residential energy storage systems.”
“Demand reduction and renewable energy storage applications are a booming market for advanced lead batteries; consequently, they are the most popular in the residential sector,” he added.
Finally, he concluded: “This project will contribute to a new battery technology being available to meet growing demand in the United States; and further afield.”
In conclusion, the project will contemplate the development of mini-systems using Silicon Joule bipolar batteries for testing; while EAI developing an optimized charge scheme to replicate real-life energy storage systems.
