At the core of the renewable energy plant is an all-in-one proprietary unit, the ZBB EnerStore, which allows the plant to operate “off-grid”. This system performs the following major functions

• Input rectification or conversion of the varying renewable sources.
• Battery storage of power for later use
• AC Output Inverter

The output is then fed onto a separate building micro-grid, using standard 3 Phase 415VAC voltage, that is connected to certain devices and powerpoints placed throughout the building that are solely powered by the renewable energy generated.

A promotional video describing the system from the manufacturer is available here and for an explanation of how the flow-cell technology works see this video.

• Zinc-Bromide (Zn-Br2) flow battery technology.
• Ionic charge is stored in ZnB solution
• High cycle life. 1000's of full discharge/recharge cycles with no loss of performance.
• Capacity: 2x 50kWh Flow Batteries (100kWh total)
• Maximum charging rate: 17kW
• Maximum discharging rate: 25kW
• 70% Round-trip efficiency at the DC point of connection (inclusive of all auxiliary power loads).

• Max Continuous Output Power: 25kW
• Max Continuous Output Current: 69A

The building microgrid is fed directly from the ZBB EnerStore output AC inverter to a Main Distribution Board. It outputs power to the following devices and locations via sub-distribution boards:

• Basement Electric Car Charging Outlets (not yet implemented)
• Deans Winter Garden Grow Lights
• Level 9 Common Room
• Labs on level 6, 10

• Inverter Specs
• Enerstore (Battery) Manual
• Flow Battery Electrolyte Circuit
• Flow Battery Electrical Process
• ZBB Electrolyte MSDS
• Hazards Register
• Zinc Bromide Storage Risk Assessment
• Zinc Bromide Storage SWMS
• Zinc Bromide Movement Risk Assessment
• Zinc Bromide Movement SWMS
• Zinc Bromide Safety Handbook
• CON3 Control Schematic

• ZBB EnerStore Website