In a global first, Aramco has successfully launched a megawatt-scale renewable energy storage system to enhance gas production activities, marking a significant milestone in industrial energy storage innovation. The newly deployed Iron-Vanadium (Fe/V) flow battery is the first of its kind to serve as a solar backup power source for gas well operations worldwide.
The 1-MW/hour flow battery system is situated in Wa’ad Al-Shamal, western Saudi Arabia, and was developed in collaboration with Rongke Power, a leading global provider of flow battery technologies. Based on Aramco’s patented design, the system is engineered to operate under Saudi Arabia’s extreme climate conditions, with an anticipated operational lifespan of 25 years. It can power up to five remote gas wells and provides a reliable and cost-effective alternative to traditional solar energy storage systems.
Commenting on the development, Ali A. Al-Meshari, Aramco’s Senior Vice President of Technology Oversight & Coordination, stated, “The pioneering flow battery system spearheaded by Aramco’s researchers represents a breakthrough for the oil and gas industry. It’s a flexible and scalable solution that can support a wide range of industrial energy storage needs, while also reducing emissions across our operations.”
Flow batteries, which store energy in liquid electrolytes separate from the battery cells, are recognized for their high durability, safety, and low maintenance costs. They deliver consistent performance with minimal capacity degradation and present lower fire risks compared to traditional battery types. Aramco’s new (Fe/V) battery also boasts improved electrolyte utilization and reduced vanadium consumption, with a wide temperature tolerance ranging from -8°C to 60°C—eliminating the need for thermal management systems.
Source: Aramco
