Battery storage integrator Younicos, acquired by Aggreko in 2017, together with its parent company are launching what they call “microgrids-as-a-service”, combining renewables, typically PV, with reciprocating engine generation and battery storage in one single contract with flexible conditions.
An initial project, a copper and zinc mine in Eritrea, is now being equipped with a PV- plus-diesel hybrid system. This combination will reduce fuel costs by more than 10%, says Aggreko, “thanks to a power purchase agreement for the solar energy, with no upfront costs to the customer.” Under the ten-year rental agreement, the mine will be powered by a 22 MW diesel plant and a 7.5 MW PV system.
