Hybrid projects combined of wind energy, solar PV and other energy sources are becoming a more and more attractive option to drive the energy transition to higher shares of renewable energy in the mix. Siemens Gamesa has a long-term track record in hybridisation and off-grid technology. The redox flow system at La Plana is connected to the hybrid controller of a combined wind and PV generation system, supplementing the lithium-ion batteries that have been in use at the site for around two years.
The La Plana test-site integrates a vanadium redox energy storage system with a wind turbine, solar PV modules and a diesel generator, offering a 120kW energy output with a storage capacity of 400kWh. Siemens Gamesa has developed a sophisticated, flexible hybrid controller which coordinates the generation of all the respective energy sources in order to meet the electrical load. This in turn reduces the LCOE of the project, regardless of whether it is grid connected or disconnected. The controller has been designed to achieve the maximum integration of renewable energy into the grid. The project provides a large storage capacity which helps keep the generators to their technical minimum load and to enhance the share of renewables, even in conditions when low winds and cloudy skies occur simultaneously.
“With the redox flow technology commissioned at our La Plana test site, we are now active in all relevant storage technologies including power-to-heat and therefore battery storage systems” said Antonio de la Torre, SGRE's chief technology officer. “Due to its scalable energy capacity the vanadium redox battery is a highly promising option to support our advanced technology offers for isolated and grid connected systems”.
Image: La Plana Hybrid Energy Test Site (Siemens Gamesa)
For additional information:
