Saft illustrates total energy storage capability for solar power applications at EU PVSEC 2009

Three main product ranges will be on show: Sunica.plus (Ni-Cd) developed specifically for large off-grid renewable energy applications; Smart VHT Ni-MH modules optimized for small off-grid renewable applications; Intensium Flex (Li-ion) ideally suited to grid-connected PV systems and smart grid applications. They provide the basis for specialized solutions defined by high reliability, low maintenance and optimum TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) for a variety of current and future PV applications: small standalone PV for signalling and lights; large off-grid PV in remote areas; grid-connected PV in residential and medium size installations; smart grids; PV plant.

In the conference sessions, four papers presented by Saft’s partners will report on the technical and economic aspects of Li-ion batteries incorporated in grid-connected PV systems and reveal the first field test results. Saft is also presenting a paper describing the importance of the Smart VHT module as a breakthrough technology in off-grid energy storage.

Sunica.plus Ni-Cd batteries – optimized for performance beyond conventional limits for off-grid PV installations Sunica.plus batteries are based on Saft’s mature, proven pocket Ni-Cd technology. They are optimized for use in PV applications where they perform beyond conventional limits. The robust Sunica.plus design ensures 20 years of reliable operation, even in the harshest conditions, such as the extreme temperatures found in deserts, with only minimal maintenance.

Smart VHT Ni-MH modules – for small off-grid PV installations Saft’s new Smart VHT Ni-MH modules are specifically designed to meet the needs of small off-grid PV systems. They offer better performance, lower total cost of ownership (TCO), improved integration and better environmental profile than traditional batteries. The Smart VHT Module enables direct integration of smart electronics – such as seamless charge/discharge management, battery condition logging and accurate state of health indicator – removing the need for separate PV controllers.

Intensium Flex Li-ion batteries – the new generation solution for high power rapid energy reserve Saft’s innovative Intensium Flex modular Li-ion system is a new generation battery technology aimed specifically at the more specialized renewable energy applications that are now starting to emerge. It is provided in a rack mount format, integrating battery management, protection and communication functions. The modules are hot-pluggable and completely maintenance free and can enable a battery system to be customised to provide the optimum battery configuration, with series strings of up to 720 V and up to 16 parallel strings. This provides Intensium Flex with the flexibility and adaptability to be optimized for high power rapid reserve as well as for traditional PV applications.