Socomec's French lab simulates global grids for energy storage, EVs

French electrical equipment manufacturer Socomec has opened a 500-square-metre (5,382 sq ft) energy storage development centre near Strasbourg, France, where it will test energy storage projects for customers in a simulated power grid environment.

The "multi-million-euro" facility, called the Energy Storage System (ESS) Grid Lab, is equipped with its own 3-MW micro-grid, featuring various platforms, an on-site electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure with real EVs and direct-current fast charging stations to mimic real-world scenarios, Socomec said.

Using on-site generators Socomec’s Lab can simulate power grids from around the world, including specific voltage and frequency conditions, offering customers the ability to conduct tests that would impractical or unsafe to carry out on real-world networks, according to the company.

The facility can assess battery performance over time, including the effects of aging, along with examining related mechanical components and power conversion devices. It also includes a Lab Supervision Platform, which oversees cyber and physical security, data analysis, modeling, and control room operations.

“To support a clean transition and ensure [Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure] continues to roll out long-term, it’s critical we have the technology required to deliver it and ensure future grid security, flexibility, and reliability,” said Flavien Martos, Energy Storage Solutions Specialist at Socomec.

“By being able to replicate the grid scenarios where our customers need storage solutions, no matter where they are in the world, we can run development and factory acceptance checks of the custom storage offerings we provide. That’s why we’ve invested heavily in this new facility, to help lead the way in energy storage and grid technology innovation - delivering innovative solutions for our customers globally,” Martos added.

The Grid Lab currently has 15 employees and is scheduled to expand further with a new customer showroom later this month.

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