BMS-Inverter Hybrid Project
- $338k Funded by ARENA
- $751k Total project cost
Summary
The BMS-Inverter Hybrid Project combines two central components in battery storage systems – the battery management system and the inverter – into a single solution, leading to lower system costs and increased lifespan.
Key results
The key findings from this project are as follows:
- Relectrify has successfully demonstrated both single-and three-phase prototype BMS+Inverter systems using second-life Nissan Leaf battery modules, in solutions rated up to 60kWh / 20kW.
- Preliminary testing demonstrated a round-cycle combined second-life battery and inverter efficiency in line with market-leading new battery products.
- Harmonics testing achieved power quality levels suitable for grid compliance.
- Relectrify has received notable customer interest in the BMS+Inverter and has secured follow-on demonstration projects on multiple continents.
Learn more
Report: Relectrify BMS+Inverter
This report details the findings of the ARENA funded BMS-Inverter Hybrid Project, which aims to combine two central components in battery storage systems – the battery management system and the inverter – into a single solution.
Video: Relectrify Electric Car Battery
The BMS-Inverter Hybrid Project aims to combine two central components in battery storage systems – the battery management system and the inverter – into a single solution, potentially leading to lower system costs and increased lifespan.
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How the project works
The project created a single set of electronics that unifies the function of both a battery management system and a battery inverter. Connecting directly to the battery, the BMS-Inverter will ensure safe and effective operation of the battery, as well as convert the direct current (DC) power from battery cells to mains alternating current (AC) power.
This has potential to provide substantial cost and performance benefits in new and second-life battery storage systems.
Area of innovation
The BMS-Inverter Hybrid uses sophisticated electronics that can be connected to battery cells and immediately make these AC ready, without needing an inverter. This can significantly reduce the cost of storing energy across the lifetime of a battery storage system and help deliver reliable electricity at peak times by reducing the pressure on the grid.
Benefit
Stationary battery storage systems offer a path towards a reliable, sustainable and affordable power supply. Battery inverters and battery management systems together represent a significant proportion of battery storage system cost. Given the need for dispatchable power to support the increasing levels of variable renewable energy on the grid from both centralised and distributed generation, the project presents a significant opportunity to increase uptake of renewables in Australia and allow a smooth shift to a higher share of renewable energy sources.
ARENAWIRE Blogs
End-of-life EV batteries live on in commercial-scale storage
Second-life electric vehicles (EVs) will power 20 industrial and commercial sites.
Melbourne battery storage pioneers plug into US market
Melbourne startup Relectrify has launched a new cost-effective technology which dramatically improves the lifespan of lithium-ion batteries.
How to use an electric car battery to power your home
A start-up launched by two Melbourne University students (Relectrify) is set to make electric cars even greener, thanks to an innovative technology that allows electric car batteries to power your home.
