As a battery startup on a mission to transform the way the world utilizes and transfers clean energy, PowerX aims to replace the prevalent reliance on fossil fuels for energy transfer. Their visionary approach involves the development of an electric-powered ship, aptly called a "power transfer ship," designed to carry renewable electricity across the globe and establish an interconnected "ocean power grid."
Last summer, PowerX unveiled plans to construct their first gigafactory in Japan, dedicated to producing innovative battery storage solutions. Among their notable creations is the Hypercharger, an ultrafast EV charger capable of delivering up to 240 kW of power, all sourced from renewable energy. Additionally, PowerX is set to manufacture grid-scale stationary batteries, marine batteries, and home batteries, showcasing their comprehensive commitment to clean energy storage solutions.
With an impressive annual production capacity of 5 GWh, equivalent to approximately 10,000 battery storage units, Power Base, the company's gigafactory, is poised to make a significant impact. Moving swiftly, PowerX recently unveiled the intricate design of their flagship vessel, "X," at the Bariship International Maritime Exhibition.
The electric-powered battery tanker, measuring 140 meters in length, boasts an impressive cruising range of up to 300 km. It is specifically designed to transport clean energy derived from offshore wind sources, facilitating its transmission between grids or to remote islands. Featuring 96 marine-grade LFP batteries, totaling a staggering 241 MWh of renewable energy storage, the electric tanker is equipped with a highly scalable battery design, allowing for potential expansions in the future.
To ensure efficient operation, the electric tanker incorporates a robust power control system, diligently monitoring battery systems and charge controllers while providing valuable insights into remaining battery life. While currently optimized for short-distance travel, PowerX's CEO, Masahiro Ito, envisions a future where increased battery density and reduced costs will enable the transportation of more batteries over longer distances.
PowerX aims to complete the construction of its inaugural ship by 2025, with plans for field testing to commence the following year. Partnering with Kyushu Electric Power Co and the City of Yokohama, PowerX has signed a Memorandum of Understanding to transform their visionary concept into a reality and drive decarbonization efforts within ports. Additionally, a new company, Ocean Power Grid Inc., will be established later this year to oversee the battery tanker operations.
By connecting grids, offshore wind farms, and remote islands with renewable energy, the electric tanker will play a vital role in regions where underground cables face limitations due to seismic activity or deep waters. This initiative will enable regions blessed with abundant renewable resources to share their energy wealth with less fortunate areas.
Source: Electrek
