In your journey to understand the intricacies of the solar industry and the cutting-edge technology that is powering our move towards greener energy solutions, the potential of flow batteries shouldn’t be overlooked. Devised as an alternative to the widely-used lithium-ion batteries, flow batteries could be game changers in the realm of energy storage. And that’s precisely why many solar companies are paying attention to them.
Imagine having your own solar panels for your home, storing excess energy efficiently for use when the sun isn’t shining. All credit to CMBlu Energy AG’s SolidFlow battery storage system, achieving a 24/7 renewable energy model is closer than it appears.
Moving beyond the common lithium-ion approach, the SolidFlow storage system is an evolution of the flow battery concept, designed specifically for industrial and utility grid energy storage. Instead of opting for expensive vanadium commonly used in flow batteries, SolidFlow utilizes a material we’re all familiar with – carbon. Affordable and with a smaller footprint, carbon use results in smaller tanks optimized for long-duration storage. Moreover, the absence of lithium makes these a potentially more sustainable choice given the increasing strain on lithium resources globally due to high demand for EV batteries.
An efficient solar array for home use requires a reliable storing system that can meet the demands for continuous power supply. In line with this, Mercedes has chosen CMBlu’s SolidFlow design to pair with their existing solar array at their Rastatt plant in Germany. The key intent: to make a leap towards a 24/7 renewable model. Mercedes plans on utilizing their solar array for on-site electricity needs and surplus energy will be stored in the flow batteries for use during the night.
This is not just a grand plan on paper but a concrete project in the pipeline. The idea is that the SolidFlow system will initially offer six hours of stored energy, and with its modular format, it will scale up in the future.
The concept of “organic” comes into play with CMBlu’s flow battery system. Using readily available carbon, not only is it easy to source, but it’s also recyclable. This plays into the hands of the company’s strategy of targeting long-duration and high-density energy storage applications up to gigawatt hours (GWh).
All this technology and potential have been years in the making, a product of a decade-long research and development by CMBlu. With their pilot projects underway in Europe and the U.S., run in partnership with the U.S Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory and the Idaho National Laboratory, they’re geared towards improving microgrids and increasing accessibility of fast EV charging in unprivileged communities.
In conclusion, as we strive to onboard the train towards accomplishing cleaner energy and as more solar companies tune into these pioneering technologies, the future of solar energy and the power of flow batteries is something to watch closely. Whether you’re considering solar panels for your home or assessments for larger projects, understanding the potential and workings of flow batteries can be pivotal in making leaps towards a sustainable future.
Original Articlehttps://pv-magazine-usa.com/2024/04/12/mercedes-to-bolster-pv-system-at-manufacturing-facility-with-solidflow-battery/
