Energy Storage

Landis+Gyr, a member of Japan’s Toshiba Group, will supply Finland with a BESS to be integrated into the Kalasatama district’s smart energy system. The goal is to test new opportunities presented by megawatt-scale storage facilities. Around €2 million is being invested in the storage facility, which should be commissioned next spring.

Advanced Microgrid Solutions (AMS) and Shell Energy North America have signed a memorandum of understanding under which up to 20 MW of battery storage will be installed across California, the U.S.

Oxis Energy is gearing up to sell its energy storage batteries in 2016. The lithium sulfur (Li-S) battery developer, which unveiled a solar storage technology demonstration project in early June with Proinso, predicts a battery price of $250/kWh in 2020.

Kolibri Power Systems AG will continue operating under the name Colibri Energy GmbH. Despite ongoing insolvency proceedings, the energy storage company has been processing orders and developing new products.

At this year’s Intersolar Europe, BYD introduced a solar PV module without EVA, which promises an extended service life and improved efficiencies. Production is expected to reach up to 500 MW in 2016. It also unveiled a new battery and two energy storage systems.

The investment opportunities and business models in the energy storage industry need to be identified, writes Ernst & Young. In the energy industry in general, more focus needs to be placed on the customer, with utilities adapting their traditional supply and demand models. Energy security in the Mediterranean is also a top priority.

Intersolar Europe opened its doors this week, prompting a flurry of bullish solar market reports outlining a glittering future for the renewable energy. That is, if the politicians and regulators play along. Energy storage was one of the most discussed topics (both at the show and in the wider industry), although inverters, India, Britain and the U.S. were also in the spotlight. Finally, two solar companies unveiled details of their upcoming IPOs.

Sigmar Gabriel calls solar the backbone of Germany’s energy transition during a well-attended speech on the final day of the Intersolar Europe exhibition.

In more positive news for the company, Sonnenbatterie GmbH has opened an R&D facility in Georgia. Research will focus on next generation smart energy storage devices.

In a new report, Roland Berger Strategy Consultants predict solar PV could account for 12% of Europe’s total electricity production by 2030. It further looks at the challenges and opportunities decentralization is presenting utilities, including regulation.