This breakthrough system named the BMW Internet of Energy Project provides microgrid and load-control capabilities at BMWs offices, and allows for BMW to commit to providing capacity to grid service markets.
This project is a great example of Geli's vision coming to life – to network and leverage disparate assets to provide multiple energy services, said 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.
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, said 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."
ESNA Innovation Award project nominations were subject to a rigorous review process that considered key industry priorities including customer value proposition, project impact, services supplied to the grid, financing model, ownership model, technology, and safety.
