A Modular and Integrated Reconfigurable Design for Battery Energy Storage System

Summary

A modular, reconfigurable battery energy storage system (BESS) built from standard battery modules that can be rearranged in series, parallel and series-parallel configurations, with full bypass of any module under every configuration. The system can also act as an integrated converter, reducing or even eliminating the DC/DC converters normally needed for charge, discharge and balancing.

Achievements: a scaled-down four-module prototype demonstrated smooth operation in series, parallel and series-parallel configurations, smooth ramping between charging and discharging, and isolation of faulty modules in every configuration without affecting normal operation. It matches the reconfiguration and bypass capability of the most flexible published designs while using roughly half the switches per module, lowering cost and conduction losses and improving reliability. Modular construction simplifies manufacture, scaling and replacement of faulty or dead batteries.

Carbon abatement potential is indirect: more reliable, adaptable and lower-loss storage supports higher renewable penetration in grids and microgrids, and the same standard module can serve applications from microgrids to electric vehicles.

TRL Level

4-6

Relevant for

• Grid-scale and microgrid battery storage integrators

• Electric vehicle battery pack makers

• Battery management system and power-conversion suppliers

• Second-life battery storage operators

About

Inventors: Huang Huizhen, Amer M.Y.M. Ghias, Pablo Fernando Acuña Rios

Affiliation: Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU), School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE), Department of Electrical Engineering, Universidad de Talca, Chile

Contact NTU for licensing opportunities and more information.

Please quote ID ref [2023-051] in your email.