Wedoany.com Report-May 26, Saudi Arabian Oil Co. (Aramco) has achieved a significant milestone with the launch of a renewable energy storage system using an Iron-Vanadium (Fe/V) flow battery to power natural gas operations. Described as the first global deployment of its kind, the one-megawatt-hour system, developed with China-based Rongke Power, supports solar energy backup for gas wells in Saudi Arabia.

'It is the first deployment globally of an Iron-Vanadium (Fe/V) flow battery as a backup solar power source for gas well operations'.

The flow battery system, utilizing Aramco’s patented technology, stores energy in liquid electrolytes, converting chemical energy into electricity through pumped cells. This design allows repeated charging and discharging with minimal capacity loss, reduces fire risks, and simplifies maintenance due to its modular structure. Aramco stated: “It is specifically engineered to withstand the hot climate of Saudi Arabia and achieve optimal performance under extreme weather conditions, setting it apart from other vanadium flow batteries.”

Capable of operating between -8°C and 60°C without a thermal management system, the battery supports up to five wells over its 25-year lifespan. It offers a cost-effective and efficient solution for variable power demands, enhancing energy independence for Aramco’s operations. The system’s deployment marks a step toward integrating renewable energy, aligning with Aramco’s goal of achieving net-zero Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Ali A. Al-Meshari, Aramco’s senior vice president for technology oversight and coordination, stated: “The pioneering flow battery system spearheaded by Aramco’s researchers represents a breakthrough for the oil and gas industry. Our ground-breaking flow battery technology offers a flexible solution for diverse renewable energy storage requirements, making it an attractive option for a variety of industrial applications.”

Collaboration between Aramco and Rongke Power began in 2024, with discussions focusing on sustainable energy solutions. Rongke Power noted: “Our guests showed a keen interest in the potential of our VRFB solutions to propel a more sustainable development of energy.” The partnership has since advanced, resulting in this innovative deployment.

Located in Saudi Arabia, the system strengthens Aramco’s renewable energy efforts, complementing its existing solar-powered gas wells. By leveraging advanced flow battery technology, Aramco enhances operational efficiency and supports sustainable practices, contributing to the broader adoption of clean energy in industrial applications.