Battery maker Saft said it developed a new high-energy density storage system (ESS) optimised for time-shifting applications. It will be available from 2023.
Its modular Intensium Shift (I-Shift) 3 MWh containers are scalable building blocks and can be installed in line-ups with power conversion equipment. The system is based on lithium iron phosphate technology. It is suited to energy time-shifting, peaking and capacity support applications on transmission and distribution grids. I-Shift allows operators to store electric energy when it is abundantly available so it can be used during periods of high consumption.
Individual 20-foot containers with 3.0 megawatt-hour (MWh) storage capacity can handle the output of multi-megawatt sites for 2-8 hours.
I-Shift containers are kitted out in Saft’s factories and use a modular approach embedding batteries, thermal systems and digital control interfaces connecting to Saft’s cloud-based data platform I-Sight. They will have safety devices such as fire suppression systems or blast panels.
Separately, Saft said it started delivery of back-up battery systems to Alstom’s Metropolis Paris metro trains. They will go into the new lines 15, 16, and 17 of the Grand Paris Express project, one of the largest transport projects in Europe.
Saft has already supplied the first 10 battery systems for five of up to 183 trains by 2030.
The batteries will power on-board signalling and control, security lighting, door control, communication systems, ventilation, air-conditioning, lighting and USB charging sockets.
Each battery system will provide 130 Amp-hours capacity and is based on the latest version of its MRX nickel batteries, together with accessories and battery box. The batteries are designed to provide an extended lifetime of up to 20 years. The compact size enables Alstom to free up space in the passenger compartment.
Image: Saft’s high-energy density storage system will be available from 2023
