Wednesday 19 June 2013

UK firms develop solar energy storage for armed forces

Four British energy companies are working together to develop safe, lightweight and robust solar energy storage systems for the military around the world.

Lincad, Oxis Energy, Pure Wafer and Solutronic are sharing their knowledge and expertise for the “next generation” of battery technology, which will also be adapted for the commercial and residential market.

Lincad will design battery systems for the defence industry to create cost-saving energy storage system while OXIS Energy will supply the lithium sulphur battery technology. Pure Wafer will contribute efficient military solar panels that can power electrical equipment during the day and charge the batteries at night and Solutronic will help connect the solar panels, batteries and equipment to power.

Brian Soden, CEO of Lincad said: "This development will revolutionise energy costs for the military around the world. It is indisputable that the cost of fuel for defence continues to escalate. Governments are keen to find alternatives and solar energy will play a significant part in bringing down the cost."

Earlier this year the US military announced plans to build its largest solar farm in Texas.