Breakthrough in Redox Flow Batteries

Recently, I ran across a company called ITN Energy, a top player in redox flow battery solutions that I thought I’d mention to readers, as they are well-poised to take advantage of the current global market demand in the energy storage space.  Advanced flow batteries have been recognized as one of the most cost effective and efficient ways to reduce peak load demand and associated energy costs, as well as to facilitate the integration of increasing quantities of renewable energy from variable sources into the grid-mix. 

Historically, the cost per kWh has been the biggest obstacle to large scale deployment of flow batteries. The company is currently shipping units at one-third the price of its competitors, and has units working in the lab that will enable sales at one-fifth of competitors’ present-day price.

ITN designs and manufactures state-of-the-art storage systems to manage fluctuations in energy supply and demand from utilities and renewable energy sources (solar and wind). Its break-through technology, a redox flow battery (RFB) system, uniquely addresses the industry’s requirements for high power, large capacity, long lifespan, and low cost. With the ability to scale from small generator (2.5kW) to large-scale grid applications (>10MW), the company is in a good position to take the leadership position in the global market.

Driven by significant increases in renewables and government mandates to curtail new nuclear and coal power generation, there is tremendous demand for energy storage systems, which are expected to reach $50 billion by 2020. In the flow battery segment, Lux Research predicts the market to reach more than $5.4 billion by 2017.

The company’s solutions optimize battery storage performance providing low cost energy; stabilizing inconsistent power provided by renewable sources; managing peak load demand and frequency regulation; and enabling investors in renewables to achieve their ROI expectations.  After several years of development, it is now commercializing its advanced solutions.