Battery energy storage systems play a key role in advanced grids. They make it possible to store and use excess electricity from renewable sources, such as solar and wind energy, as needed. This helps maximize the use of renewables and lessen dependence on fossil fuels.

Intelligent algorithms and advanced power electronic systems are essential to maximizing the efficiency and reliability as well as the utility of such storage solutions.

The objective of the joint ALene project, a collaborative partnership of industry, grid operators and research organizations, is to develop and field-test algorithms and power electronic systems for optimized, grid-supporting and multifunctional battery energy storage system operation.

This is intended to produce solutions that help reduce and compensate negative grid effects and local grid phenomena, boost service quality despite the loss of large power plants, reduce the equipment load and utilize the existing grid infrastructure optimally. Collectively, this will increase overall system efficiency and resilience in local distribution grids. It will also cut costs for renewable electricity not injected into the grid or other grid stabilization actions, ultimately benefitting every consumer.

In the project, battery energy storage systems will be equipped with upgraded ancillary service functions and integrated systemically. To this end, specific algorithms will be developed, which will be integrated in the system management in combination with upgraded power electronic components and intelligent communications technology.

In addition to other research partners, grid operators are also involved in this joint project.

The project partners are: 

• Fraunhofer Institute for Factory Operation and Automation IFF
• Harz Energie Netz GmbH
• Magdeburg-Stendal University of Applied Sciences
• morEnergy GmbH
• Power Innovation Stromversorgungstechnik GmbH
• Clausthal University of Technology
• Tesvolt AG

The project started on October 1, 2024 and will run three years. It is being funded by the Federal ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action as part of its funding announcement for applied nonnuclear research under its Innovations for the Energy Transition 8th Energy Research Program.