Samsung SDI + ABB Partnering To Create & Offer Modular, Scalable Microgrids
Samsung SDI and ABB are partnering to develop and sell modular, scalable microgrids, according to recent reports. The two companies have reportedly already signed a memorandum of understanding, and are now in the early stages of the work that needs to get done.
A recent press release put out by the energy technology and battery technology companies noted that the agreement between the two called for ABB to provide specific solutions for electrification, control optimization, and stabilization, and for Samsung SDI to provide lithium-ion batteries plus battery management systems.
The CEO of ABB, Ulrich Spiesshofer, commented on the partnership (and the broader idea behind it): “Microgrid applications are expanding rapidly, both in emerging and developed markets, and are a key growth area in ABB’s Next Level strategy. This strategic alliance allows us to combine our complementary capabilities and will enable us to bring optimized solutions to our customers.”
The new partnership appears to be part of a broader trend, as SolarCity recently announced that it would begin developing distributed microgrid systems (using batteries provided by partnership with fellow Elon Musk associate Tesla Motors) — with the aim of selling them to customers looking for grid backup solutions.
To be specific, potential (targeted) customers would include cities and communities facing the threat of grid instability via natural disasters, or just via normal infrastructure decay and neglect. Other potential customers mentioned by SolarCity include communities/facilities that have never been connected to the grid.
While nothing solid has been revealed on this front yet from ABB and Samsung, presumably the new Samsung SDI and ABB partnership will aim for similar customers/markets. Considering that decentralized power is likely to be a big part of the future world, the move towards microgrid solutions by forward-thinking major companies is no surprise. When a new market is clearly emerging, why not position yourself to take advantage?
Image Credit: Samsung SDI
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