Energy storage system specialist Sterling PBES has launched what it says is the next generation of onboard energy store. The CanPower Microgrid is said to have exceptional energy density coupled with a liquid cooling system to optimize lifetime, performance and safety.
The company says the self-contained units can add energy storage to virtually any vessel and be easily and inexpensively located on the top deck or other exterior location. All it says is required is connection to a vessel’s electrical grid via a fixed or plug-in connection.
The ESS inverters and other power electronics are enclosed in IP65, DNV 2.7.3 rated steel housings and do not require any additional infrastructure. Additionally, there is a built-in fire safety system, ambient temperature management and ventilation. Impressively, using Sterling PBES’s own C-Max connector system, it is claimed the battery can be charged in as little as six minutes depending on available shore power.
One interesting feature of the CanPower system is the ability to use it as a cartridge battery, effectively allowing hot swapping of batteries and removing the need for vessels to dock and charge. If the vessel duty changes, the system may be repurposed to another vessel, or used as shore power or to provide auxiliary power to other heavy equipment on the dock.
