Saudi Aramco launches world-first renewable energy storage for gas

Dubai: Saudi Aramco, a global leader in energy and chemicals, made a historic stride in renewable energy innovation by commissioning the world’s first megawatt-scale Iron-Vanadium (Fe/V) flow battery.

The system, designed to power gas production activities, marks a significant step toward more sustainable energy solutions in the oil and gas industry.

The pioneering flow battery was successfully deployed at the company’s Wa’ad Al-Shamal facility in western Saudi Arabia. It will serve as a backup solar power source for gas well operations, supporting up to five wells over its 25-year projected lifespan.

This deployment is the first of its kind globally, and Aramco’s in-house technology, developed in collaboration with Rongke Power (RKP), a leading flow battery manufacturer, is expected to offer a cost-effective and flexible energy solution for a range of industrial applications.

Solution for extreme climates

Aramco’s flow battery system is designed to operate in the harsh climate conditions of Saudi Arabia, where temperatures can soar to extreme levels. Unlike traditional solar energy systems, the Fe/V flow battery technology can handle fluctuating power demands with high efficiency and minimal performance degradation. The modular nature of the battery system makes it more affordable to maintain, and it is equipped to provide long-term energy independence with minimal capacity loss.

Ali A. Al-Meshari, Aramco’s Senior Vice President of Technology Oversight & Coordination, emphasized the significance of the breakthrough: "The flow battery system developed by our team represents a significant advancement in the oil and gas sector.

"It offers a more flexible and reliable energy storage solution compared to existing alternatives, particularly for remote and isolated locations. This technology exemplifies Aramco’s ongoing commitment to integrating advanced solutions that improve energy efficiency and support our emissions-reduction goals."

Future of renewable energy storage

Flow batteries, which store energy in liquid electrolytes and allow for repeated discharge and recharge cycles with minimal capacity loss, are becoming a more attractive option for various industrial uses. Their reduced fire risk, flexibility, and ease of maintenance make them a preferred choice for sectors that require reliable and cost-effective energy solutions.

Aramco’s success with the Fe/V flow battery is paving the way for further deployment of renewable storage systems at unmanned and isolated oil and gas sites. These systems can meet fluctuating energy demands without incurring additional operational expenses. Moreover, the battery’s broad operating temperature range, from -8°C to 60°C, eliminates the need for costly thermal management systems, making it even more efficient in extreme weather conditions.