Development of Operation Technology for Storage Battery Systems, Including Reused Ones

Overview

We are challenging ourselves to develop technology that will enable safe and long-term use of storage battery systems, including reused ones, by accurately grasping the deterioration state of storage batteries from remote monitoring information and implementing control according to the state.

Background

With the introduction of renewable energy accelerating, storage batteries, which can make up for the instability of renewable energy, are expected to play more important roles. Storage batteries connected to the grid can store electricity when electricity is in surplus on the grid and can discharge when electricity is in short supply, making it possible to stabilize the grid.

Although storage batteries have this kind of potential, there is also a risk that if they are not controlled properly, their usable period (lifespan) will be shortened.

By implementing control according to the state of deterioration and operating storage batteries in various states—including reused EV batteries, which are expected to be used in the future—Osaka Gas will contribute to the spread of renewable energy and the stabilization of the power grid.

In-Depth Description

By utilizing the technology owned by our subsidiary KRI that accurately grasps the deterioration state of storage batteries (deterioration diagnosis technology1), it is possible to estimate the capacity and resistance of the storage batteries from remote monitoring data such as on voltage, current, and temperature. By adjusting control items, taking into account the thus obtained capacity and resistance, long-life storage battery operation with reduced deterioration is achieved.

Furthermore, in September 2022, we entered into a capital and business alliance with NExT-e Solutions Inc., a company with advanced storage battery control technology,2 and have begun storage battery operational demonstration testing that combines storage batteries in different states of deterioration.

※１　KRI's deterioration diagnosis technology
※２　Capital and business alliance with NExT-e Solutions