Porsche Gives Batteries a Second Life

Porsche Launches Energy Storage System Powered by Used Taycan Batteries

Porsche has launched an innovative energy storage system that powers the brand’s factory in Germany. The innovation of this project lies in the use of used batteries from the Porsche Taycan model, fitting into the “Second Life” concept. The system consists of 4,400 battery modules.

Second Life for Batteries

Instead of sending used batteries for recycling, Porsche has decided to give them a second life by using them in a stationary energy storage system.

As explained by Alwin Schmid, Head of Electrical Engineering at Porsche, the project not only addresses energy supply issues but also highlights the brand’s pioneering role in energy storage.

The project was developed in collaboration with the Zwickau University of Applied Sciences. Jonathan Dietrich, Energy Storage Project Manager at Porsche, emphasized that the goal was to increase the cost-effectiveness and self-sufficiency of the Leipzig plant. The knowledge gained will help equip other Porsche factories with similar systems.

System Parameters

The new energy storage system has a power output of 5 MW and a capacity of 10 MWh. The modules, sourced from test vehicles of the Taycan model, were installed in the energy storage system without the need for technical modifications. The expected lifespan of the system is 10 years.

The energy stored by the Porsche system comes partly from its own photovoltaic power plant, with a peak output of 9.4 MW. The energy storage system is designed to meet the needs of the factory and provide balancing services for the electrical grid.

Porsche has been consistently pursuing a sustainability policy for years. Since 2021, production at its Zuffenhausen, Leipzig, and Weissach plants has been carbon-neutral. Since 2017, the company has used only electricity from renewable sources, and the Leipzig plant also utilizes heat generated from biomass.

Source: newsroom.porsche.com