Automotive supplier MAHLE is making its entry into the stationary battery storage systems market with a first series order for a cooling module. These storage solutions are used, for instance, in containers designed to stabilise power grids and for the temporary storage of renewable energy such as wind and solar power. As the demand for energy continues to rise, particularly for data centres, this market is expected to see substantial growth. 

The customer, an international commercial vehicles and drivetrain manufacturer that produces its own battery storage systems, has placed its trust in MAHLE’s proven expertise. The company is leveraging its experience in developing and producing cooling modules for electrified buses. The newly developed cooling module is scheduled to enter series production in 2026. 

“We can easily transfer the knowledge of cooling modules we have gathered in the transportation sector to stationary battery storage system in containers,” said Christian Kuechlin, Vice President MAHLE Industrial Thermal Systems. “Since the space in the container is mainly to be used for battery stacks, MAHLE develops space saving, compact and efficient cooling solutions in line with customer requirements.” 

In the past, stationary battery storage systems were cooled using basic air conditioning systems, relying on air for cooling. However, as the use of high-performance lithium-ion batteries has increased the energy density in these systems, more waste heat is generated. As a result, significantly higher cooling capacities are now required. To meet this demand, MAHLE’s cooling module provides up to 42 kilowatts (kW) of cooling power using liquid cooling technology, a much more efficient solution for handling the increased heat load. 

“Our cooling module enables battery operation in the optimal temperature range of 20 to 30°C, which ensures a long service life and high durability for the energy storage system, as well as stable load management,” said Christian Kuechlin. With MAHLE’s broad component and system competency this module achieves market leading compactness and scalability. 

The technology group is expanding into new business areas outside the automotive sector to strengthen its diversified positioning. In industrial thermal management, MAHLE is already developing modules for liquid-cooled cables used in fast-charging stations for electric vehicles. Additionally, sectors such as high-performance computing, data centres, heat pump manufacturers, and photovoltaic system providers can also benefit from MAHLE’s advanced thermal management technologies.  Image Source: https://media.automotiveworld.com/app/uploads/2012/11/12091919/mahle-logo.jpg