ABB’s energy storage system range showcased at Solar Energy UK 2015

One of the biggest challenges with solar energy is the fact it is unpredictable and its usage is not completely discretionary. By combining energy storage and load management capability with a traditional photovoltaic inverter, self-consumption and energy independence are significantly improved.

On the residential side, ABB is unveiling its renewable energy accumulator and conversion technology (REACT) to exhibition-goers.  The energy storage system allows homeowners and landlords to store any excess energy produced by their PV installation during peak times for periods with higher energy demands. The product will be available for purchase in the UK as of Q1 2016.

Its equipment consists of a 4.6 kW or 3.6 kWh single-phase ABB inverter and a lithium-ion battery providing two kWh of usable energy. Due to its dual maximum power point tracking (MPPT), broad input voltage ranges and high efficiencies with transformerless topology, the integrated inverter offers maximum installation flexibility for optimal energy harvesting.

REACT has been designed for a long life-cycle with a ten year expected life of the battery. It can also be expanded, within the same product enclosure, by additional battery modules to store up to six kWh of usage energy. Up to four onboard load management outputs are included as well as an auxiliary AC back-up output for off grid capability in case of a black out.  And, due to its integrated Ethernet port, remote or local monitoring is easily achieved without requiring any additional interfaces.

On the industrial side, ABB offers scalable and flexible energy storage systems to fit every grid application, whether individually, or combining multiple applications. These ensure enhanced power system operation and performance with increased return on investment.

The basic role of energy storage is the same across all applications: to absorb energy generated at one time and to discharge it to supply power at a later time. However, the choice of storage medium for each application is strongly influenced by the required power rating and the duration for which it may need to continuously charge or discharge.  Applications include load levelling, peak shaving, capacity firming, frequency regulation, power quality and spinning reserve.

For more information, please visit: http://new.abb.com