A pioneering energy storage project launched by renewable energy company SERMATEC is set to transform Bulgaria’s solar energy landscape. The newly introduced 5.1MW/17.8MWh commercial and industrial energy storage system promises to boost the efficiency of solar power generation and support local economic growth, marking a significant step forward in the country’s green energy efforts.
The innovative solution was developed to address a key challenge faced by a client operating a photovoltaic plant in Bulgaria. Excess solar power generated during the day was being wasted due to a lack of adequate storage capacity. This forced the client to rely on purchasing power from the grid at night, leading to inefficiencies and higher costs. SERMATEC’s energy storage system, however, offers a robust solution by storing over 6.5 million kWh annually. This enables the plant to balance supply and demand more effectively, preventing energy wastage and reducing costs by avoiding the need for nighttime grid electricity.
According to SERMATEC, the project also helps tackle the issue of negative pricing that can arise from excess solar generation. By enabling the storage of surplus energy, the system allows customers to participate in electricity market trading, contributing to a more balanced and economically viable energy ecosystem.
The heart of the project is SERMATEC’s EasyCube Series, consisting of 48 units of 372kWh Energy Storage Systems. These cabinet-style units have been designed for spatial efficiency and operational flexibility, setting new standards in energy storage technology. The system uses advanced 3.2V 280Ah lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, offering a conversion efficiency of up to 99% and a design life exceeding 15 years. SERMATEC notes that this system is not just about energy storage but reflects their commitment to engineering excellence and innovation in renewable energy.
The project is powered by SERMATEC’s self-developed Energy Management System (EMS), which integrates photovoltaic (PV) power generation and energy storage. The EMS facilitates the self-consumption of solar energy by managing peak and off-peak energy use. It allows customers to optimise their energy usage throughout the day, ensuring that excess solar power generated during daylight hours can be stored for use at night, reducing dependency on grid electricity.
The system also features cloud-based monitoring, allowing clients to observe real-time operation and performance of their energy storage facility remotely. In addition, the project utilises SERMATEC’s independently developed Battery Management System (BMS), which ensures the safe operation of the storage batteries while extending their service life. By using intelligent battery management, customers can optimise their energy use and achieve greater operational efficiency.
SERMATEC’s vision extends beyond this single project. The company sees its innovative energy storage solutions as key to driving green, low-carbon development, not only in Bulgaria but across the wider region. The project marks an important step towards the broader adoption of renewable energy storage technologies and the move towards a more sustainable energy future.
Speaking about the project, a SERMATEC spokesperson said, “At SERMATEC, we’re not just building projects – we’re building a sustainable energy future. This storage solution is a significant development, helping Bulgaria reduce solar energy waste and move towards a greener, more efficient energy system.”
The project is a significant milestone for Bulgaria, signalling the country’s increasing commitment to renewable energy and the potential for energy storage to revolutionise its solar power capabilities.
