Sineng Electric debuts the world’s most extensive sodium-ion energy storage system

The Chinese energy company Sineng Electric has announced the launch of the world's largest energy storage system based on sodium-ion cells. The first phase of the project is already operational, and further expansion is planned.

In its current phase, the Sineng Electric storage system has a power output of 50 megawatts (MW) and a capacity of 100 megawatt-hours (MWh). Upon completion of all project phases, it is expected to reach a power output of 100 MW and a capacity of 200 MWh. Even now, in its initial version, the storage system is capable of powering approximately 12,000 households, significantly contributing to the power grid's stability.

This project consists of 42 BESS containers (Battery Energy Storage System), which contain batteries with a capacity of 185 ampere-hours (Ah). The system comprises 21 power conversion systems and a station that increases the voltage to 110 kilovolts (kV). According to information provided by Datang Hubei Energy, energy storage began on July 2, while the storage system was connected to the grid on June 30.

One of the main goals of this project is to stabilize the power grid, which is particularly important given the variability of renewable energy production. Energy sources such as photovoltaics and wind farms depend on weather conditions, leading to varying energy production both annually and daily.

Pv magazine reports that the Sineng Electric project in Hubei demonstrates that sodium-ion technology can become crucial in future power grids. The company emphasizes that sodium-ion batteries exhibit better performance at low temperatures, greater efficiency, and higher safety levels compared to traditional lithium-ion solutions.

In the project, Sineng Electric implemented advanced technological solutions, such as a cluster-level energy management system, allowing for the optimal use of sodium-ion batteries. The company is also undertaking other significant energy storage projects in China, including in the Shandong province, and has partnered with the German semiconductor manufacturer Infineon Technologies AG.