~ WEG ensures power supply for the launch of space rockets ~
Global motor and drives manufacturer, WEG has supplied a complete energy storage system in utility scale lithium-ion batteries and the development of a microgrid control to the Alcântara Launch Center (CLA), based in the northern state of Maranhão. Powered by several energy sources, this project is in partnership with the Brazilian Air Force and the Brazilian Space Agency.
The project includes the supply of a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) with an installed capacity of 1MW and 1MWh, as well as the commissioning, training and development of the entire plant microgrid control. The contract for this project is signed with Sousândrade Foundation for the Equatorial Energia project, which is responsible for the construction, research and development of the microgrid at CLA’s internal facilities.
Scheduled to go into operation in April 2022, the BESS is intended to unify the distribution and expansion of the microgrid power generation system capacity. Additionally, it will disseminate the use of solar energy, which is part of the power system, while ensuring safety, quality and resilience for power supply during the launch of rockets. The BESS also eliminates diesel consumption, reducing the project’s impact on the environment.
“Participating in this project is a great opportunity for WEG to show how prepared we are to serve the growing market for battery energy storage, specifically in Brazil,” explained Manfred Peter Johann, managing director of WEG Automation Business Unit. “Our reputation for the supply of battery energy storage systems internationally is positive, but now we are advancing with development of applications for microgrid control, which is a growing trend in the market.”
As part of the Research and Development program of the Equatorial Energia Group (EEG) and the National Electric Energy Agency (ANEEL), WEG will also construct and develop a smart electric energy microgrid to meet critical loads at CLA internal facilities. It also counts on the Energy Institute (IEE) of Maranhão Federal University (UFMA) as a technological development partner.
“This is a very strategic project,” added Marcelo Fernandes Augusto Jr, corporate executive for digital and innovation at EEG. “Both due to the importance of encouraging the continuous technological modernisation of CLA — contributing to national scientific research — as well as specialising in microgrids development and control, which have an increasingly and demanding application for the electrical sector.”
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