Lithium–ion batteries for EU's smart grid
The EU has set ambitious goals for a 20 % contribution of RESs by 2020 and large-scale lithium–ion (Li–ion) stationary batteries could play an important role in future smart grids. They are an advanced technology with a good energy capacity-to-power output ratio meaning a long service life. A new EU-funded project is developing testing procedures to lead to international standards with work on the project 'Stationary batteries Li-ion safe deployment' (STABALID)(opens in new window). Scientists plan to get those standards adopted during the course of the project thanks to close contact with the International Electromechanical Commission (IEC), the standards organisation for all electrotechnologies, including Li–ion batteries. In order to establish testing protocols, the scientists first had to identify the risks associated with all aspects throughout the life cycle of a large-capacity Li–ion stationary battery. The team considered production, storage, transportation, installation, operation, periodic inspections, maintenance, decommissioning and removal. This led to definition of test scenarios. Following a literature review of existing test protocols, the team developed its own, including tests such as dropping a container during installation, immersion of modules to simulate flood and heating without cooling until a failure occurs. The testing procedures are currently being validated on 86 small-scale battery modules and two battery management systems. STABALID plans to develop international testing procedures and standards covering the entire life cycle of large Li–ion stationary batteries and to get them adopted within the project duration. Ensuring the safety of this critical enabling technology will foster rapid implementation into EU smart grids. This will facilitate storage of energy from intermittent RESs for use on demand as needed. The EU is one step closer to its 2020 goals for 20 % contribution of RESs and increasing independence from fossil fuels for powering activities.
