Batteries that store wind power

September 11th, 2007 Alex

American Electric Power, a coal-burning utility company will be using batteries to smooth the power delivery from wind turbines. The batteries will charge at night when the wind is strong and price is low and give it back in the afternoon when the wind is low and price is high. The batteries can also give back energy during outages and blackouts. Currently the cost of this technology is extremely high compared to building a gas turbine alternative, but this solution does not produce any carbon dioxide. The batteries can deliver 1 megawatt of power, which is enough to run a medium sized shopping mall for seven hours. The batteries are the size of a double decker bus and can also be moved around if necessary. It is good to see that companies are using emerging technology that is good for the environment and setting a stage for others to follow in its lead.

via News.com

Entry Filed under: Environment,Green Tech