Highview Power has picked MAN Energy Solutions to provide key equipment for a 50MW liquid air energy storage (LAES) plant it is building in Greater Manchester in the UK.
The turbomachinery train from MAN will form the core of the CRYOBattery facility that, upon completion, will form one of Europe’s largest battery-storage systems.
Highview Power CEO Javier Cavada (pictured left) said: “Highview Power believes in partnering with companies that share our commitment to a decarbonised world, and awarding MAN the contract to build out our Carrington facility reinforces that commitment.
“MAN is well-respected in the industry and has an impressive track record of building large energy assets. We are proud to be working with them on this significant project.”
MAN chief sales officer Wayne Jones (pictured right) added: “There has been a lot of background work involved in getting to this stage – in the face of much competition – and I am personally delighted that Highview Power has chosen to work with MAN Energy Solutions.
“Especially since Highview is a fantastic company and world leading expert in the storage industry. We could not wish for a better partner.”
Construction of the CRYOBattery began in late 2020 with commercial operation planned for 2022.
Highview Power will operate the facility in partnership with Carlton Power, a UK independent power-station developer.
Construction will proceed in two phases.
Phase one will involve the installation of a ‘stability island’, to provide near-instantaneous energy grid stabilisation. This will be achieved using a generator and flywheel, among other components. Enabling short-term stabilisation will provide the basis for phase two and the completion of the more complex liquid air energy storage system that includes various compressors, air expanders and cryogenic equipment.
Highview said phase two will represent the integration of stability services with a full-scale long-duration energy storage system, and in doing so promote the full integration of renewable energy.
“The Carrington project will offer a blueprint for future projects and cement the partnership between MAN Energy Solutions and Highview Power,” stated Highview.