nypa pilot project

NYPA install Zinc-Air Battery Energy Storage System in New York 

The New York Power Authority announced a collaboration with a leading-edge energy storage company to develop a demonstration energy storage system, using new zinc-air energy storage technology, in New York. The project, selected as a winner through the NYPA Innovation Challenge, will have the ability to provide back-up power, help level grid demand, and move the state further toward a carbon-free electric grid supported by renewable energy resources.

NYPA, the largest state power organization in the U.S., connected with Zinc8 Energy Solutions Inc., a Vancouver developer and manufacturer of long-duration, low-cost zinc-air energy storage solutions, through its NYPA Innovation Challenge launched in May of 2019 in collaboration with the New York University Tandon School of Engineering’s Urban Future Lab (UFL). More than 60 business applicants entered the challenge, designed to accelerate the commercialization of new technologies for the electricity grid to ensure an affordable and reliable renewable energy supply to New York. NYPA selected Zinc8 Energy Solutions’ Zinc-Air Energy Storage technology to demonstrate energy storage and demand management that can help build longer duration flexibility (eight hours plus) into the grid and optimize the role storage resources play.

“Advancing innovation is key in New York state’s commitment to achieve carbon neutrality and invest in a clean energy future,” said Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul, who announced the Innovation Challenge competition last May. “This investment in long duration, low-cost energy storage technology will provide a boost to our clean energy economy, maximize the benefits of renewable resources, and help in our aggressive efforts to combat climate change.”

NYPA will support the development, fabrication and installation of the storage unit at commercial scale over a three-year period. The 100kW/1MWh behind-the-meter energy storage system will be installed at a demonstration site in Western New York. NYPA is actively investigating potential sites, such as a municipal building or a building on a college campus or university that would benefit from the demonstration of this technology. The final demonstration site is expected to be set in the first quarter of 2020.