Abstract

Ktech and EnerVault, will integrate EnerVault’s Vault-20 battery energy storage system (250 kW, 1 MWh) with a Helios dual-axis tracker 180 kW photovoltaic (PV) system. The system will be deployed at an agricultural site in California’s Central Valley. It will store the energy generated and dispatch power to run an irrigation pump and inject energy back into the utility grid during peak times to help offset demand from a section that comprises 4 percent of California’s electricity demand. The modularity of the system provides scalability for multi-megawatt deployments. The Vault-20 is based on 20-foot container building blocks. Two electrolyte tanks (one anolyte, one catholyte) form the bottom level for two power containers that hold the stacks, pumps, control system, and power conditioning system. Technology development will progress from 15x15 cm lab-scale cells and 20 layer stacks, to a 2-5 kW prototype system, to a 40 KW alpha system, and conclude with a 250 kW beta system. EnerVault plans to begin manufacturing flow battery stacks in its Northern California plant within 12 months of project completion.