Energy storage system grid lab launched near Strasbourg

Socomec, a global manufacturer of energy storage solutions, has launched the energy storage system (ESS) Grid Lab near Strasbourg, France, to develop technology for grid security, resilience and reliability.

According to France-based Socomec, the multi-million euro energy storage development centre consists of a highly modular and flexible testing environment, with the capacity to replicate different storage project conditions and installation via an on-site microgrid.

The new 500m2 facility will test the capabilities for a range of energy storage projects for customers that would otherwise be unfeasible to safely achieve on real-world networks.

On-site generators allow the facility to simulate grids from across the globe, including different local voltage and frequency types.

In addition, the lab and Socomec’s on-site products are open to partners in the hopes of bolstering cross-sector collaboration for storage innovation.

The grid lab provides testing through its own microgrid of up to 3MW, which consists of a range of platforms.

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Utilising Socomec’s energy storage systems SUNSYS HES XXL and SUNSYS HES L, development teams can conduct a wide range of microgrid, grid integration and energy storage research.

The facility also has an onsite electric vehicle charging infrastructure platform, with real EVs and DC fast charging infrastructure to replicate real-world scenarios.

The development centre also includes a Lab Supervision Platform, used for cyber and physical security, modelling, data analytics and control room operation.

In addition, the facility can analyse the performance of batteries, including how aging affects them, and examine related mechanical components and power conversion devices.

Commenting in a release, Socomec energy storage solutions specialist Flavien Martos said: “To support a clean transition and ensure EV charging infrastructure continues to roll out long-term, it’s critical we have the technology required to deliver it and ensure future grid security, flexibility and reliability.

“By being able to replicate the grid scenarios where our customers need storage solutions, no matter where they are in the world, we can run development and factory acceptance checks of the custom storage offerings we provide.”

The development centre has 15 employees on-site and is set to expand with a new customer showroom later this month.