Japanese automaker Nissan has moved a step closer to entering the second life energy storage market following a partnership with a battery management company.
UK-based power management specialist Eaton’s technology will be used with 30kW/h lithium-ion batteries from Nissan’s electric vehicle Leaf to create energy storage and control centres.
The first module will combine second-life Leaf batteries and solar PV to create a stand-alone energy storage and control package that will allow customers to manage energy consumption and supply, whilst connected to, or independent of, the grid.
“The batteries as power storage units far outlast the typical life of a car,” said Electric Vehicle Director of Nissan Global Robert Lujan.
Nissan first moved beyond experimenting with used EV batteries when it launched a full-scale commercial business with California-based start-up Green Charge Networks in June.
The batteries from Nissan’s Leaf were used by Green Charge for its behind-the-meter storage systems, backed by a ten-year usability warranty from Nissan.
Nissan is also believed to be working with General Motors and Swiss grid provider ABB on second-life battery applications.