BESS Research

The Vanadium Redox Flow Battery (VRFB) was first developed in 1986 by researchers at the University of New South Wales, representing a quantum leap in the science of long-duration energy storage systems. Practical advantages included a near-infinite charge/ discharge lifecycle, no limit on energy capacity, improved safety compared to available systems, the ability to remain discharged indefinitely without damage and a significantly longer storage duration compared to other commercial energy storage units; making the VRFB perfect for use with renewable energy sources! However, at the time of inception, the VRFB was riddled with inefficiencies limiting the efficacy of the battery in real-world scenarios. Recent developments across a range of battery components have diminished many concerns restricting the use of VRFBs. Thus the technology has seen increasing adoption in many countries around the world. Unfortunately, although Australia is one of the countries with primary industries and communities that stands to benefit most from VRFB, it has lagged behind the rest of the world in researching and applying this technology.​

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BESS Research aim to identify and address the factors limiting the adoption of large-scale VRFB's in Australia by applying and adapting a large-scale battery to one of Australia's largest industries; Mining. This will assist in bridging the gap between VRFB's representing a 'promising' energy storage solution, and representing the leading long-term energy storage solution for remote areas.