Renewable energy is crucial for driving sustainability, but it faces a big challenge: the unpredictability of nature. Solar, wind, and hydropower are vital in our quest for net-zero emissions, yet their output is dependent on weather conditions, making energy supply inconsistent.
So, how do we ensure renewable energy is available when we need it most? One solution lies in energy storage systems. These systems capture and store the excess energy generated, making it available on demand. This is a key step to integrating renewable energy into our power systems without compromising reliability.
This very challenge inspired Dr Avishek Kumar and Dr Arjun Bhattarai to take action. Fuelled by a shared passion for innovation, they teamed up and founded VFlowTech, dedicated to making renewable energy more reliable and accessible.
We speak to one of its co-founders, Dr Avishek about the company’s work and plans for the future.
VFlowTech is known for providing energy storage systems using vanadium redox flow battery technology. Can you explain what this technology is about and what its benefits are?
Vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs) are rechargeable batteries that store energy using a metal called vanadium. The vanadium can change into different forms to help store and release energy when needed.
Unlike traditional batteries such as lithium-ion or lead-acid, which rely on solid electrodes in a closed system, VRFBs store energy in liquid electrolytes held within external tanks. This allows for easy scaling of the battery’s energy capacity by adjusting the volume of electrolytes in the tanks.
A standout feature of VRFBs is how power and energy storage capacity are separate. Their power output is defined by the electrochemical stack, whereas their energy storage capacity is determined by the size of the external tanks. This design means VRFBs can be adjusted to meet different energy and power needs independently, making them flexible to the needs of individual projects.
Safety is another key advantage of VRFBs. Unlike lithium-ion batteries, which rely on flammable organic electrolytes, VRFBs use non-flammable aqueous solutions, reducing fire risks significantly. They also deliver high energy efficiency.
By providing long-lasting, efficient, and safe energy storage, VRFBs are an ideal solution for integrating renewable energy sources into the power grid for a stable, green energy future....
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Source Energy Market Authority Singapore
