10 December 2019
DHYBRID presents new storage solutions for hybrid power plants and microgrids
Uninterruptible power supply for regions with challenging climates
DHYBRID — the specialist in hybrid power plants — is enhancing its hardware and software portfolio with microgrid-optimized lithium-ion storage solutions. The new storage systems work seamlessly together with DHYBRID's Universal Power Platform (UPP), which controls the interaction of solar systems, storage units and diesel generators in local power grids. In combination with the UPP, the storage systems allow for a truly uninterruptible power supply. Such supply is necessary when computers or devices must be prevented from losing power during problems with the grid, for example. This sets the solution apart from a conventional storage-supported back-up power supply, which can sometimes still experience brief interruptions.
Special requirements for storage systems in hybrid microgrids
Unlike conventional energy systems, hybrid microgrids must be able to switch seamlessly between different energy sources. This also changes the master and slave roles in the system and places special demands on the control system and on storage-relevant components such as the battery inverter.
"We adapt the configuration of our storage systems individually to each project in order to optimize them for the respective Microgrid. We use data from more than 70 projects that our team has been working in more than 20 countries. The UPP, which orchestrates the components in the system, ensures the necessary flexibility and the technology-agnostic approach,” says CEO of DHYBRID Benedikt Böhm.
Customizable all-in-one solution
The new storage solutions are installed in 10-, 20- and 40-foot air-conditioned containers and can be seamlessly monitored using a SCADA system with VPN access, making them particularly suited to guaranteeing supply security in areas with no grid connection or with a challenging climate. The storage capacity is between 100 kWh and several MWh, with a charging and discharging rate of up to 2C.
The systems use high-quality lithium-ion cells from manufacturers such as Samsung and LG, depending on the performance required as well as the area of application. These manufacturers also provide battery management to ensure safe control of the battery cells and modules to the highest possible standard in all operating states. The integrated battery inverter, too, is custom-planned and specially configured for each project.
Success story in Africa
The new storage system can be seen in use at South Africa’s Kruger National Park. This particular system has a capacity of 1 megawatt-hour and works together with three solar installations with a combined output of 300 kW as well as a 150-kVA diesel generator to supply the Cheetah Plains Lodge’s microgrid with three-phase electric power. DHYBRID’s Universal Power Platform (UPP) monitors and controls all important grid parameters and enables automated system operation. The project was realized in collaboration with DHYBRID’s local partner Blockpower.
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