From EVs to Grid Storage: How Megapack-Scale Lithium-Ion Systems Are Powering Cities
From EVs to Grid Storage: How Megapack-Scale Lithium-Ion Systems Are Powering Cities 1. Introduction: The Transition from Mobility to Megawatts For years, lithium-ion batteries were associated with consumer electronics and electric vehicles. But today, the same core technology has scaled into megawatt-hour (MWh) and even gigawatt-hour (GWh)-scale energy storage systems deployed by utilities. This evolution has given birth to Megapack-scale lithium-ion systems —containerized, factory-built battery energy storage plants capable of powering entire cities, balancing grids, integrating renewable energy, and replacing fossil fuel peaker plants. Why this shift? Because modern power systems need fast, flexible, digitally controlled, high-efficiency storage —and lithium-ion has proven it can deliver. In this article, we go far beyond basic explanations and dive into engineering details: PCS, BMS, EMS, voltage levels, inverter technologies, thermal systems, safety standards (UL 95...