Altech’s battery ambitions have taken a key step forward with the launch of the CERENERGY 60KWh sodium alumina solid state battery pack design by its joint venture with Fraunhofer.

The ABS60 design, which supersedes previous plans for a 10 kilowatt hour (KWh) module following preliminary discussions with potential offtakers for the 100 megawatt hour (MWh) CERENERGY battery project, is a milestone for the potentially game-changing technology.

Altech Chemicals’ (ASX:ATC) new ABS60 battery pack contains 240 cells in a totally weatherproof design for outdoor installation and is designed specifically for the renewable energy and grid storage market.

Each battery pack is rated at 620 volts and 100Ah while the larger size reduces the amount of module assembly and connection costs required.

Image: Supplied

Easing supply chains

The company had formed a joint venture (75%) with Fraunhofer IKTS – a world-leading German battery institute – to commercialise the latter’s CERENERGY sodium alumina solid state ceramic battery technology in September this year.

This tech uses common table salt and nickel while excluding lithium, cobalt, graphite or copper, which eliminates exposure to critical metal prices and supply chain concerns while reducing costs by up to 50%.

CERENERGY batteries have lifespans of more than 15 years are capable of operating in extreme cold and desert climates with energy capacity comparable to lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, though they require longer charge times that makes them better suited for grid storage use.

Image: Supplied

Under the JV, Altech will commercialise a 100MWh battery project on its land in Schwarze Pumpe, Germany.

It has already appointed Germany’s Leadec Automation & Engineering GmbH to carry out engineering work for the project.

This article was developed in collaboration with Altech Chemicals, a Stockhead advertiser at the time of publishing.

This article does not constitute financial product advice. You should consider obtaining independent advice before making any financial decisions.

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