Range of services

Research + Development

The Energy Storage Research Centre offers flexible models for collaboration in research and development. We focus on practical innovations and issues relating to the topic of electrochemical energy storage. If you require any further information, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Potential areas for collaboration include the following:

• The characterisation and modelling of electrochemical battery cells and modules and full battery system tests
• The development of technologies for manufacturing battery cells and systems for automated manufacturing
• Modelling and simulating factories for more cost-efficient production of key components for electrical energy storage
• Stationary and mobile PEM fuel cell systems as cornerstones in the long-term storage of electricity as hydrogen
• The use of batteries in the distribution network to increase the ratio of network-compatible fluctuating renewable energy. This area of focus also covers issues relating to production, as well as distribution and demand
• The use of electrochemical storage in mobility as a substitute for fossil fuels and to reduce fossil fuel emissions. This ranges from engines in road and rail vehicles to off-roaders, air transport, water transport and the use of storage in the supply of ancillary units
• Economic evaluation of new business areas and the development of new business models incorporating the use of electrochemical energy storage
• Integrative analysis of innovation ecosystems enabling the diffusion of batteries as a tool and means of supporting the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions

Consulting services

Through our activities, we aim to provide comprehensive, expert advice to decision-makers in three key areas:

• The selection, development and implementation of electrical storage devices for applications in energy and mobility
• Adopting a demand-based, cost-oriented, user-centred approach to managing such systems
• Assessing investments in storage systems and facilities and their associated business models. Consideration is also given to issues relating to electricity supply and demand, as well as anticipated innovations and economies of scale

To achieve this goal, BFH and its collaboration partner CSEM have set up one of Switzerland’s most cutting-edge storage research laboratories.
The testing facilities for batteries, fuel cells and electrolysers enable the analysis and characterisation of cells and modules for applications in power supply and mobility under a range of ambient conditions. With assistance from Prosumer Labs, all ‘smart building’ components can also be tested up to a connected load of 50 kW, and optimisations can be made to the energy manager connection.

Facilities

Thanks to Switzerland’s cutting-edge storage research laboratories, the centre plays a leading role in research and development activities pertaining to electrochemical energy storage solutions.
Facilities:

Power Grids Lab and Hydrogen Systems Lab
 

Battery Test Lab (in German)

Student theses

The model of ‘flexible collaboration’ with industry and business is successfully put into practice in student theses. Projects can be conducted in collaboration with our students in the form of project work or a diploma thesis. The students complete this piece of work as part of a curriculum.