The 2015 Energy Storage North America Innovation Award was recently presented jointly to Geli and BMW owing to the two companies’ efforts to integrate second-life electric vehicle batteries into micro-grid systems at the BMW Group Technology Office, according to a recent email sent to EVObsession.
The efforts were undertaken in support of BMW’s i ChargeForward electric vehicle (EV) demand response program — and resulted in the creation of the BMW Internet of Energy Project, which provides micro-grid + load-control functionality at the place of operation.
“This project is a great example of Geli’s vision coming to life — to network and leverage disparate assets to provide multiple energy services,” stated Geli co-founder & CEO Ryan Wartena. “Our work with BMW Technology Group is a breakthrough use of second life vehicle batteries and paves the way for integration of EVs as grid resources.”
The recent email provides further information:
Using the Geli EOS & Geli GENI software platforms for control & monitoring, Geli & BMW integrated second-life Mini E batteries from EVGrid, a Princeton Power power converter, Kaco New Energy solar inverters, and EV chargers from companies such as ChargePoint and ABB. Behind-the-meter functionality not only includes microgrid management and load control, but this system also delivers grid services to support the BMW i ChargeForward program.
“The goal of the BMW i ChargeForward project is to show how electric vehicles with smart charging capability and stationary 2nd life applications of EV batteries can provide valuable flexibility that would make it possible for utilities to maximize the effectiveness of the existing electricity grid, which we expect to ultimately lower total cost of EV ownership for consumers,” stated Dr Simon Ellgas Senior Advanced Technology Engineer — Sustainable Mobility, BMW Group Technology Office USA. “It shows the potential of collaboration between partners like PG&E, Geli, Princeton Power Systems, and EV Grid but most especially our enthusiastic BMW i3 electric vehicle drivers.”
The award decision followed on a review process incorporating parameters such as: project impact; customer value; grid services provided; approach to financing; safety; and others.