Case Study: SDG&E achieves grid stability and clean energy resilience with Sumitomo Electric’s VRFB solution

SDG&E maintains 99% availability with Sumitomo's VRFB project

SDG&E faced the challenge of enhancing grid reliability and integrating clean energy to meet California's ambitious greenhouse gas-free energy goals. To mitigate issues from renewable energy integration and prevent power outages, they partnered with vendor Sumitomo Electric to implement a vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB) system.

Sumitomo Electric deployed a 2MW/8MWh VRFB, which was the first large-scale flow battery connected to the California energy grid. The solution demonstrated multiple capabilities, including providing backup power and operating in energy markets. The Sumitomo Electric system maintained a 99% operational availability over two years, successfully powered 66 customers for up to five hours during tests, and established a microgrid capable of a black start after a complete outage.

SDG&E