U.K. largest hybrid energy storage system combining a flow and a Li-ion battery; is this the right approach?

July 15, 2022 | Case Study

The rising number of intermittent renewables connected to the power grid introduces a significant challenge for grid operators to provide a consistent energy supply. To overcome this issue, deploying stationary energy storage capable of providing support to the power grid and preventing grid failures is critical. Grid services have different technical requirements depending on the specific application; therefore, a mix of energy storage technologies will be needed to fully serve all of them. For asset owners that are looking to maximize revenue, the discharge duration and lifetime of an energy storage asset are two important characteristics to consider when choosing a technology. At the same time, energy storage must also work in tandem with other assets to create a secure transmission system. In an effort to demonstrate how new technologies can work together, the Energy Superhub Oxford project was formed. It is a consortium of six partners with the goal of reducing Oxford's CO₂ emissions and is partially funded by the U.K. government’s Industry Strategy Challenge fund. The project incorporates electric vehicle charging infrastructure, battery energy storage systems (ESSs), and ground source heating for residential homes.