Socomec is a specialist in low voltage switching devices

By OEM Update Editorial November 1, 2021 3:34 pm IST

“In terms of future outlook, the needs would be basically dictated by higher system voltages.” 

What is the market outlook about energy storage technologies? 

Within the next 2-3 years, the Asian region will transform into an Energy storage growth engine, accounting for almost 40% of the global market demand forecast. India has a strong RE target to achieve 450GW of RE power within this decade. The outlook certainly portends a good sustained growth for the ESS segment, as the renewable utilities can store the unused energy and balance out the variance in power generation. The segment will continue to witness advances as more and more manufacturers enter mainstream market, resulting in industry expansion and growth 

Please talk about energy storage solutions and expectations that drive demand for the products. 

The most common energy storage solutions is via high capacity higher density battery banks, that is specifically associated with reliable and safe means for on load isolation, involving versatile range of AC and DC isolators, both manually operated as well as remotely operated variants 

Which of the energy storage for Commercial and Industrial Buildings applications are in great demand currently? 

Typical Energy storage applications include Power Conversion systems, Battery connection panels and inside Battery racks. For Power Conversion, typically, the manual as well as motorized operation is envisaged, primarily to adhere to reactive line compensation criteria for the off solar insolation hours. Of course, high reliability, maintenance ease and higher withstand coefficients are prerequisite for sub-system considerations, whereas, in case of BCPs there is uncompromising need for adapted solutions to fully meet customer needs by way of multiple circuits, as well as visible contact blades, that instill certain confidence in minds of project as well as O&M teams. Besides, endurance testing at certified TP labs adds to product appeal from a customer view point. 

Eventually, the Battery Rack DC Switching applications entail high performance, reliable DC switching, often with lateral handle operation provision. 

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Since the ESS is still to enter maturity, there are challenges in terms of standardization, coupled with absence of contemporary regulatory mechanism. The union government has a big role to play in terms of simplifying codes and standards, besides incentivising innovation to enhance competition along with exploring uncharted methodologies to fuel growth 

What opportunities do you envision for the future of energy storage applications? 

Switching devices to handle high energy density, complying with global standards IEC | UL. Socomec is a specialist in low voltage switching devices, with consistent commitment to core research as well as expertise at hand to support critical installations. In terms of future outlook, the needs would be basically dictated by higher system voltages ( 1500Vdc in typical applications ) in a compact footprint, with high switching capability as a non-negotiable attribute. 

What role do Socomec products play in power supply as well as elaborate about facilitating the integration of renewable energy production into the grid? 

Socomec is an established player for Load as well as Offload switching in intermediate as well as high power applications. We have a complete range of highly reliable and maintainable Isolators for AC switching up to 1000 Vac application, as well as adapted solutions in DC switching devices for 1500Vdc upto 5000A characterized by high short circuit withstand. With a view to evaluate system performance, there is a complete basket offering plug and play energy measurement, power monitoring as well as power quality solutions, fulfilling versatile application requirements. 

What is the present size of energy storage applications and how do you assess growth prospects next year. 

Various plans and initiatives afoot expect to create almost 100GW of Energy storage potential market, corresponding to an off take of almost 500k PV isolators and 20k AC and DC metering kits, accounting for a PAM exceeding INR 10 billion by 2024, with a sustained CAGR in double digit over the next few years.