ST. LOUIS, Dec. 13, 2024 — Ameren Missouri, in collaboration with GS Yuasa and Siemens, has launched a pioneering Managed EV Charging and Microgrid platform at its St. Louis campus. This system, utilizing stationary advanced lead-acid batteries and soon-to-be integrated solar panels, represents a significant step forward in clean energy adoption.
“This project significantly impacts economic development and industry progress,” stated Alex Rojas, Ameren Services’ director of innovation implementation and strategy. “By showcasing the practicality and advantages of electrifying fleets, we aim to encourage commercial and institutional adoption of cleaner transportation. The system’s ability to address business needs like fire safety, energy resilience, and demand management offers strong value.”
This initiative, fostered by the Consortium for Battery Innovation (CBI), provides a more economical and sustainable EV fast-charging solution. Ameren Missouri will utilize the station for its electric service vehicles.
The charging station incorporates stationary advanced lead batteries, drawing energy from the grid, batteries, and solar panels as needed. The integrated IT system optimizes energy usage to prioritize clean sources and minimize costs.
“This is potentially transformative for US EV charging,” noted CBI’s Director of Technology, Dr. Matt Raiford. “The system’s ease of replication, renewable energy integration, and advanced battery technologies deliver efficient charging. This sustainable and intelligent system’s adaptability allows for broader deployment in various locations.”
This sustainable approach uses advanced lead batteries in an energy storage system forming a microgrid that supports the EV chargers, enhancing both cost-effectiveness and reliability.
This US-first charging system, pending safety and performance validation, could be nationally implemented, expanding EV charging access and reducing costs.
Demand for EV charging infrastructure and smart grid technology is substantial, with projections indicating a significant increase in charging points. Ameren’s facility, employing GS Yuasa’s advanced lead batteries, could model improved charging access and reduced operational costs.
“Our battery energy storage system (BESS) integrates advanced nano-carbon lead batteries, battery management, and power conversion systems, housed in on-site containers,” explained Bill Cunningham, GS Yuasa’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “Our batteries’ reliability, performance, and cost-effectiveness over their lifespan make this system adaptable.”
The one-megawatt-hour microgrid utilizes GS Yuasa’s advanced lead batteries, designed for over 5000 cycles, ensuring durability and cost-efficiency. Lead batteries are over 99% recyclable, with components reused in new battery production. Doe Run Company, an Ameren customer and Missouri business, a global lead market supplier, recycles over 8 million lead batteries annually and played a key role in this collaboration.
Note to editors:
The EV charging and microgrid facility will be officially opened on December 11 from 11:00 am-12:00 pm EST
Media are invited to attend the event.
Please contact:
Emily Rau
314-496-1242
For more information on the system, the following are available for interviews:
Consortium for Battery Innovation
Dr. Matt Raiford, Technical Director
Ameren Services
Alex Rojas, Director of Innovation
GS Yuasa
Bill Cunningham, Vice President of Sales and Marketing
SOURCE GS Yuasa Energy Solutions, Inc.