Battery storage solution helps break cost barrier to enable utility solar

Eos Energy Storage and Northern Power Systems Corp. will develop and offer integrated energy storage systems (ESS) for utilities and commercial/industrial customers. The initiative combines the safe, ultra-low cost Eos Aurora DC battery system with Northern Power’s energy storage inverter, controls and engineering expertise. The suite of integrated solutions provides four hours of usable energy using modular 250-kW battery building blocks that are scalable for multi-MW applications.

“Batteries represent a significant portion of the performance and cost of an energy storage system,” said Chris McKay, Director of Sales at Northern Power Systems. “By using the Eos Aurora, we can deliver a fully integrated ESS solution at an all-in, installed price of less than $400/kWh—depending on project size and location but always with the quality, functionality and reliability that is characteristic of Northern Power. We believe this offering will allow more customers than ever to access the benefits of an on-site energy storage system.”

Northern Power and Eos are jointly developing and supplying industry-leading, turnkey ESS solutions offering seamless integration of batteries, power conversion, and controls along with installation and maintenance services as needed. The joint product represents a cost-effective option for utilities who want to provide relief in grid constrained areas, lower capacity payments, defer substation upgrades, and/or better integrate renewable energy. The integrated product is also appropriate for large commercial and industrial facilities looking to lower demand and peak energy charges, or provide resiliency against grid outages.

“Northern Power’s patented converter architecture and advanced controls technology are an excellent match for Eos’ battery offering. The team’s engineering capabilities will ensure successful system integration and performance for major utilities around the world,” said Eos Vice President of Business Development, Philippe Bouchard. “We are gratified to work on these projects with Northern and their clients, and Eos looks forward to deepening this relationship through the collaborative Eos Aegis integration program.”

The Eos Aurora battery solution is powered by the company’s aqueous, zinc hybrid cathode Znyth technology and offers game-changing cost and performance for a critical segment of the energy storage market. With a volume price of $160/kWh for the DC system and an expected life of 5,000 full depth-of-discharge cycles, the Eos Aurora offers the best-fit solution for multi-hour energy storage applications.

Northern Power’s FlexPhase power converter technology leverages a modular, compact, and efficient design that is easy to service. The platform allows for a wide range of DC voltages suitable for a variety of battery types. Northern Power’s proprietary PowerRouter controls allow for seamless transitions between grid and islanded operation, as well as black start capability. The grid-friendly design improves power quality and system stability.

Northern Power’s engineering design team is supporting integration of the Eos Aurora DC battery system with Northern Power’s advanced power converters and control software, to deliver a superior performance solution and ease-of-installation in the field. Eos and Northern Power initiated the partnership by focusing on development and optimization in 2016 and plan to deliver fully-integrated products to major utilities in the second quarter of 2017.

Eos and Northern Power are attending the DistribuTECH conference together in San Diego, CA from January 31 through February 2. Additional information regarding the integrated battery energy solution will be available at Eos’ booth #1247.

News item from Eos Energy Storage

Solar Power World