Megapack Tesla: Europe’s largest energy storage plant unveiled in Belgium
The largest battery in continental Europe. The French Corsica Sole just revealed in broad daylight on December 1st its electricity storage plant. To store energy, the company relies on the Megapack technology developed by Tesla Energy. A real revolution that should help maintain the frequency of the Belgian electricity network.
A power of 50 MW
It is the commune of Deux-Acren near Lessines, in Belgium, which was selected to host this titanic project. Having entered into operation in recent days, the plant is capable of providing peak power of nearly 50 MW thanks to a network of 40 Tesla Megapacks providing a reserve of 100 MWh. The project is the culmination of a partnership between Corsica Sole, Tesla, Yuso and InnoVent. According Electrek which relays information, this new plant replaces a turbojet generator dating from the Second World War. The initiative therefore makes it possible to replace the polluting system with cleaner energy storage.
As a reminder, Tesla’s Megapack lithium-ion electric battery can store more than 3 MWh of energy in the equivalent of a marine container. A single unit is capable of powering “on average 3600 households for one hour”noted You’re here. Their simple and robust design allows quick installation and minimal maintenance. The batteries are guaranteed to last a maximum of 20 years. Just like the brand’s cars, the Megapacks could receive updates over the years to improve their efficiency.
Redistributor pendant consumption peaks
Megapacks can be used to compensate voltage peaks on the electrical network. The stored energy is redistributed at the peak of demand and can thus avoid starting up more polluting thermal power stations. On the Deux-Acren project, the plant will make it possible to stabilize electricity from renewable energies and export it to the network when the time comes. The installations also ensure the regulation of the 50 Hz frequency on the Belgian network. A real boost for the electrical manager.
For several years, Tesla has been increasing orders for Megapack. The Pillswood megaproject near Hull, UK, is expected to store 196 MWh of electricity.
“By demonstrating that the large-scale deployment of batteries is economically viable, we are providing proof that we can build a world based on renewable energies coupled with energy storage. The multiplication of this type of project is a strategic challenge to guarantee Europe’s energy sovereignty.welcomed Michael Coudyser, general manager of Corse Sole.
This technology could quickly make its arrival in France. A location in the heart of France seems “conceivable” by 2023, confides Anthony Bonello, project director at Corsica Sole, to our colleagues from The new factory. Good news at a time when power cuts threaten to affect the country, for lack of sufficient production.