Tesvolt Develops Next-Generation Storage System Using Samsung SDI Batteries

Düsseldorf/Germany, 14 March 2017 – The commercial storage system manufacturer Tesvolt collaborated with Samsung SDI to develop a high-voltage storage system which is setting new standards for safety and also boasts a 30 year lifespan. The battery contains Samsung SDI’s new prismatic lithium cells, which BMW recently introduced into their electric cars, thereby almost doubling their range. Each cell is monitored individually to ensure the maximum level of safety. A new cell balancing concept, which for the first time optimises the charging currents not only between the cells within each battery module, but also between the battery modules, contributes to the long service life. Tesvolt will present the new storage system at the Energy Storage Europe trade fair in Düsseldorf from 14–16 March 2017.

New cell technology ensures maximum safety and lifespan

New cell technology in the automotive industry
“The new lithium cells from Samsung SDI are currently opening new doors in the electric automobile industry. Alongside BMW, other automotive manufacturers want to focus on these prismatic, lithium cells based on nickel manganese cobalt oxide, as their enormously high energy density can double the range of electric cars”, explains Simon Schandert, Director of Engineering at Tesvolt. “We are combining the new cells with the Active BAT Optimizer – our special battery management system – to ensure active cell balancing between all cells, even between the different battery modules. This allows us to achieve an extremely high battery system efficiency of 98%, and a lifespan of around 30 years”, adds Schandert.

Next-generation high-voltage batteries
The new Tesvolt storage system can complete around 6,000 full charge cycles with a depth of discharge (DoD) of 100%, which means that the entire battery capacity can be used. The storage system functions just as well with a low voltage of 48 volts as with a high voltage of 1,000 volts for stationary commercial and industrial applications.

“We are delighted to have collaborated with the young, technology-driven company Tesvolt to develop this next-generation high-voltage storage system. The combination of our cells and the Tesvolt battery management system raises the bar in terms of service life and safety. With this premium product, we are continuing to do our bit to promote sustainability efficiently and economically around the world”, says Sewoong Park, Vice President of the Energy Storage System Team at Samsung SDI.

Multiple safety measures
Thanks to an integrated cell safety device and overcharge protection, it is impossible for Samsung SDI cells are fire proof, and a pressure relief valve additionally ensures that there is no danger of explosion. The ceramic protective layer within the cell slows down the aging process, thus extending the chemical service life of the lithium battery.

At the same time, Tesvolt’s smart battery management system monitors the state of each individual cell to prevent damage at an early stage. Battery modules can be exchanged at any point, even years later, and the storage capacity can also be expanded years down the line. Other commercially available lithium storage systems only have the technical capacity to address these two issues within approximately the first year.

Storage capacity from 4.8 kWh to storage power stations with multiple MWh
The new battery storage system is available in all sizes from 4.8 kWh up to power stations with multiple MWh, and clients can assemble their preferred capacity themselves on the basis of 4.8 kWh modules. The new 48 volt Tesvolt storage system for SMA Solar Technology’s Sunny Island system is now available for delivery. The high-voltage storage system will come onto the market in June. Samsung SDI and Tesvolt offer a 10-year performance warranty for the number of cycles and efficiency of the new batteries.

Energy Storage Europe booth: Hall 8b / booth F01