Battery management system and system design for stationary energy storage systems using second-life batteries
With the boom in the electric vehicle (EV) market comes an urgent challenge: What should be done with the growing number of batteries that are no longer suitable for use in vehicles but still retain 70–80% of their storage capacity? Although these batteries have reached the end of their useful life, they hold immense potential for reuse in alternative energy storage applications.
The vision of BATTERY2LIFE is to facilitate the smooth transition of batteries to secondary use and to drive innovation in the European battery industry by creating the conditions for the implementation of open, adaptable smart battery management systems (BMS) and improved system concepts. As part of this project, a wireless BMS operating in the 2.4 GHz band was developed. This improves the disassembly and reassembly process for secondary use applications. Each wireless module management system (MMS) contains an active cell-to-cell balancer that supports a balancing current of up to 1 A.
Harnessing the Potential of Second-Life Batteries
Instead of disposing of EV batteries that still have a significant amount of residual energy, Battery2Life turns this challenge into an opportunity. The Battery2Life project was launched as part of the EU’s HORIZON EUROPE program and aims to pave the way for a sustainable, circular battery economy. Its goal? To enable the safe and efficient reuse of EV batteries in new applications and to promote the integration of renewable energy into European power grids.
Advanced Technology and the Role of AIT
The AIT Austrian Institute of Technology is a leader in the development of an innovative battery management system (BMS) based on the principles of the circular economy. This includes:
- Wireless communication between the central BMS and the management systems at the module level to simplify the reconfiguration of batteries in their second life.
- Integration of sensors, including strain and pressure sensors, to better assess the battery’s condition and enhance safety in second-life applications.
These advancements make the disassembly and reassembly of batteries more efficient, reduce waste, and extend the service life of high-quality materials.
Environmental and economic impacts
The results of Battery2Life will help support the transition to green energy and have a positive impact on the European economy and the environment. Battery2Life is an important step toward the sustainable use of electric vehicle batteries and contributes to promoting a circular economy. By redefining the use of electric vehicle batteries after their initial service life, Battery2Life helps reduce environmental impact, minimize the demand for raw materials, and foster innovation in the European battery sector.
