EVLO Energy Storage, a subsidiary of Canadian utility Hydro-Quebec, has recently introduced EVLOFLEX, a utility-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) utilizing its own lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry. The system offers three different versions: 500 kW (1/4C), 1,000 kW (1/2C), and 1.5 MW (1C), with configurable energy capacities of 1.65 MWh, 2 MWh, or 2.5 MWh. Depending on the configuration, the system can provide storage durations ranging from one to four hours.
The EVLOFLEX system boasts a nominal voltage of 1,306 V and, under specified operational conditions, can endure up to 7,300 cycles over a 20-year period without requiring replacement. EVLO emphasizes that its proprietary LFP battery chemistry offers enhanced stability, making it a safer choice compared to other chemistries. Additionally, it exhibits 100% depth of discharge and achieves approximately 90% roundtrip efficiency in terms of Power Conversion System to Alternating Current (PCS-AC). The recommended state of charge (SoC) range for the battery, at a temperature of 25°C, is between 10% and 98% when operating at 1C, and between 3% and 98% when operating at 1/4C or 1/2C.
The EVLOFLEX system features the ability to incorporate 51 modules per string and accommodate four to five strings within each enclosure. The enclosure dimensions measure 6.1 x 2.44 x 2.59 meters. Depending on the number of strings, the weight of the system ranges from 20,000 kg for a four-string configuration, 22,680 kg for a five-string configuration, and 25,400 kg for a six-string configuration.
One of the notable advantages of the EVLOFLEX system is its versatility to be connected to both 50Hz and 60Hz networks, which can be adjusted through its power conversion system. Furthermore, the system operates effectively within a temperature range of -40°C to 55°C. With an IPX4 rating and compliance with IEEE 693 requirements for seismic events, the product ensures durability and reliability.
According to EVLO, the EVLOFLEX battery system can be tailored to various power or energy applications, including renewable energy integration, backup power, peak shaving, resource adequacy, congestion relief, as well as deferring investments in transmission and distribution networks. The company's CEO, Sonia St-Arnaud, highlights that the EVLOFLEX system was developed based on valuable input from utility and developer customers, who require secure, cost-effective, and scalable energy storage solutions to effectively support the expanding deployment of renewable energy sources and reinforce the grid's stability throughout the day.
