PV hybrid system and battery test results from Grasmere Idaho

In large PV hybrid power systems battery management is critical due to the continuous operation of the power system, the limited power available for temperature control in the battery room, and the high cost of maintenance. A new C&D CPV deep-cycle low antimony vented battery has been tested in the laboratory and at the Grasmere Idaho PV hybrid power system to evaluate battery capacity, charge requirements, temperature, and cost. Laboratory cycle tests on the battery were used to evaluate appropriate charge control for PV hybrid applications and battery field performance was verified after 2.5-years of operation at Grasmere Idaho. Test results demonstrated that with proper system and battery design using appropriate charge control, the battery will operate reliably with minimal maintenance under the continuous operational requirements of a large PV hybrid power system.