Areva and Schneider Electric have partnered to develop energy management and storage solutions based on hydrogen fuel cell technology.

Combining their expertise, the companies will develop solutions to address power supply issues at isolated sites and areas where access to power is limited, ensuring the reliability of electrical grids.

Under the terms of the partnership agreement, Areva will provide the energy storage solution made with an electrolyzer and fuel cell – Greenergy Box, while Schneider Electric will deliver integrated solutions that ensure safe, reliable, efficient and green energy production.

Operational since 2011, Greenergy Box, the environmental-friendly solution, will store hydrogen and oxygen from water electrolysis during periods of low energy demand to produce electricity during peak consumption periods, emitting no CO2 emissions.

AREVA claims the safe and reliable system energy storage solution has power system modularity ranging from 200kW to 2MW in addition to high and long-term energy storage capacity is greater than 2MWh a unit.

The latest agreement will allow Schneider Electric to achieve grid parity for renewable energies while managing its intermittency and optimising network connection and as such the company could strengthen its unique position to connect all smart grid players.

Schneider Electric Energy Business executive vice-president Frederic Abbal said the partnership will create a robust commercial partnership for deploying an innovative solution in energy storage.

“AREVA will capitalise on the international presence of Schneider Electric and its leadership in electrical grid management, utilities and infrastructures, industrial and non-residential commercial buildings,” said Abbal.

AREVA Renewables CEO Louis-François Durret said, “This agreement will allow AREVA and Schneider Electric to combine their experience, knowledge and achievements in energy management and storage. It will also place both companies as first of its kind players in this promising market.”