American Electric Power (AEP) is expanding its use of large-scale battery technology on its electricity grid. AEP, the only US utility currently using advanced energy storage technology as part of its electricity infrastructure, will be adding stationary sodium sulfur (NAS) battery technology in its West Virginia and Ohio service territories next year.
The company will also work with wind developers to identify a third location for NAS battery deployment next year, using the storage capability to help offset the intermittent nature of wind generation. AEP has placed an order for the three new NAS batteries with NGK Insulators Ltd. of Japan. AEP anticipates delivery in spring 2008.The six MW added to AEP's system during this deployment is a step toward the company's goal of having 1,000 MW of advanced storage capacity on its system in the next decade. The combined cost for the three installations, including associated site preparation, equipment and control systems, will be approximately US$ 27 million.
