Element Energy has completed the installation of the world’s largest second-life battery storage and system project, with a capacity of 53 MWh. Located in central-west Texas, the facility uses 900 reconditioned electric vehicle batteries and is fully operational as of May 2024, connected to the ERCOT grid.
A model of a second-life battery system
This system required the implementation of specialized hardware and software for semiconductors. The company has optimized the performance and safety of the reconditioned batteries, allowing it to be a viable and efficient solution for commercial energy storage.
“We are excited to lead the way in creating a more circular and secure energy storage system. This project demonstrates our capabilities, and opens the door to mass reuse of batteries around the world. “said Dr. Tony Stratakos, CEO and co-founder of Element Energy.
Element Energy has demonstrated that second-life batteries can be a cost-effective alternative, and an environmentally friendly model that encourages reuse and avoids polluting emissions. To date, the company has processed 2 GWh of used batteries, avoiding the generation of 8,500 metric tons of waste and 150 metric tons of carbon dioxide by reusing them instead of disposing of them.
Furthermore, the positive impact of the project goes beyond the environmental. By extending the life of electric batteries , Element Energy reduces the need for extraction of materials such as lithium and cobalt, helping to mitigate the environmental impacts associated with intensive mining.
This project is made possible through financial support from the U.S. Department of Energy , which awarded Element Energy $7.9 million in funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act in 2022. These resources allowed the implementation of the technologies necessary to optimize the management of reused batteries and ensure their safe integration into the electrical system.
In addition, Element Energy has secured $111 million in additional financing in 2024, including $73 million in a Series B round and a $38 million credit facility, backed by Keyframe Capital Partners. This support strengthens the company’s ability to scale its model into new global markets.
“This is just the beginning. With our growing supply of second-life batteries, we are ready to take this technology to new levels,” Stratakos concluded.
Follow us on social media and don’t miss any of our posts!
YouTube LinkedIn Facebook Instagram X TikTok
Source and photos : Element Energy
Loading...
