Huawei Introduces Next-Generation Smart String Grid-Forming ESS Platform

Huawei FusionSolar has unveiled its next-generation 'Smart String Grid-Forming ESS Platform,' named LUTERRA. Launched during Intersolar Europe in Munich last month, the platform is designed to bring technological breakthroughs that enhance energy storage system efficiency and ease of installation.

The LUTERRA platform aims to achieve industry-leading efficiency and supports grid-forming capabilities directly at the installation level, a crucial development for integrating renewable energy sources. This technology has already been demonstrated in the world's largest 100% renewable energy microgrid located in 'The Red Sea' destination in Saudi Arabia. The project, operational for over two years, comprises 400 MW of solar PV and 1.3 GWh of battery energy storage systems (BESS).

Key features of the LUTERRA platform include industry-leading round-trip efficiency (RTE), precise state-of-charge (SOC) control, and cell-to-pack optimization. Huawei attributes these advancements to expertise in electrochemistry, electrical engineering, and control technology. The company stated the system achieves 93.1% efficiency on the low-voltage side of the PCS at 25°C ambient temperature, with SOC accuracy of 2.5% at both ends.

Utilizing an integrated design with liquid cooling and a 1000V AC architecture based on silicon carbide (SiC) components, the platform reportedly reduces system losses and increases efficiency. Huawei claims the improved consistency and availability increase the system's throughput by over 10% compared to conventional solutions. Despite the advanced technology, the installation and logistics are designed for simplicity. For a 1 GWh BESS installation, Huawei estimates at least a 30% reduction in delivery time, a 20% decrease in balance-of-plant (BOP) costs, and a smaller space footprint.