May 29 2015
GE’s renewable energy business today announced it will supply Convergent Energy + Power with a 7 megawatt (MW)-7 megawatt hour battery energy storage system for the Ontario Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO).
The complete solution features GE’s Mark* VI plant control system with SCADA, Brilliance* MW Inverters, packaged lithium ion battery modules, medium-voltage transformers and switchgear integration.
“Convergent is thrilled to be working with GE’s energy storage team on this important project for the Ontario IESO,” said Frank Genova, COO of Convergent Energy + Power. “GE worked with us to create a fully integrated energy storage solution that meets the growing needs of the local transmission system. The project utilizes reliable GE equipment and products ranging from enclosures through the point of utility interconnection—a strategy that is cost-efficient, simplifies system warrantees and guarantees and provides a financeable solution to our customers.”
The new system is expected to help the IESO balance longer duration voltage and frequency irregularities in the area. While it was engineered primarily to provide ancillary power services, including voltage control, reactive power support, frequency regulation and ramp rate control, the control system also offers energy related services such as peak shaving and load shifting, depending on the IESO’s needs.
“We are pleased to be working with Convergent by developing energy storage technology that will help Ontario better manage its future energy needs,” said Jeff Wyatt, general manager of GE’s energy storage business. “Battery energy storage systems are a great way to provide flexibility to the grid.”
GE recently expanded its energy storage portfolio, and this deal marks the second system to utilize lithium ion battery modules. Last month, the company announced it would support Con Edison Development with an energy storage project in California.
The deal includes delivery of all equipment and installation support plus GE performance guarantees. Commercial operation is expected to begin in the fall of 2016.