South Korean energy company Kokam has secured a contract from Engie subsidiary Electricité de Tahiti (EDT) to supply a battery energy storage system (BESS) for Tahiti’s first virtual synchronous generator (VSG).
The battery system has 15MW/10.4MWh of capacity and is integrated with a 20Mvar Statcom.
It is designed to replace EDT’s spinning reserve diesel generators.
The deployment of the BESS is intended to reduce diesel fuel consumption while incorporating renewable energy and strengthening the power grid.
EDT currently operates a public utility in Tahiti and another 19 islands of French Polynesia.
The company is engaged in generating power from both fossil fuels and renewable sources, as well as the distribution of electricity and all related works.
EDT CEO François-Xavier de Froment said: “Through the VSG technology, EDT acts on its desire to decarbonise electricity production and contributes to the shift to carbon neutrality in French Polynesia.”
It is estimated that EDT could save almost €1.25m ($1.4m) a year by incorporating more renewable generation sources and improving the performance of its diesel genset.
The company could also enhance its savings by reducing the generator’s maintenance costs and extending its operational lifespan.
Kokam chief marketing officer Ike Hong said: “Electricité de Tahiti’s BESS demonstrates how innovative and intelligently designed battery solutions can help utility and industrial customers lower greenhouse gas emissions while also improving their bottom line and increasing grid reliability.”
Kokam is a subsidiary of SolarEdge Technologies, which agreed to acquire a significant stake in the company in October 2018.
Founded in 1989, Kokam manufactures battery solutions for a range of industries, including energy storage systems (ESS), uninterrupted power supplies (UPS), electric vehicles (EV), aerospace and marine power supplies.
