AuroraCell launches 9.7 kWh sodium-ion chromium oxide residential battery

Bulgaria-based AuroraCell has introduced a 9.7 kWh residential energy storage system based on sodium-ion chromium oxide (NCO) battery technology.

Unlike standard sodium-ion batteries, sodium-ion NCO technology uses a different cathode chemistry designed to improve battery life, stability and performance across a wider temperature range. Sodium ions still carry the charge, while the NCO cathode gives the battery its distinct performance characteristics.

In practical terms, the system is designed to compensate for some of the typical limitations associated with sodium-ion batteries, including lower energy density and performance constraints at temperature extremes. AuroraCell says its NCO chemistry addresses these trade-offs by prioritizing long cycle life, thermal stability and operation across a broad temperature range, characteristics that are particularly relevant for stationary energy storage applications.

The AuroraCell 9.7 kWh – 48 V RESS Pack is a standalone residential battery designed for use with 48 VDC hybrid inverters. The system has 9.744 kWh of rated energy, a nominal capacity of 210 Ah and a nominal voltage of 46.4 V. Its operating voltage range is 32 V to 54.4 V.

According to AuroraCell, the sodium-ion NCO cells can achieve 20,000 cycles at 100% depth of discharge (DoD) at 25 C.

The battery has a standard and maximum charge rate of 0.5C and a standard discharge rate of 0.5C. Maximum discharge current is 150 A between 0 C and 60 C, while the specified discharge temperature range extends from -40 C to 60 C. Charging is permitted between 0 C and 60 C, according to the manufacturer.

AuroraCell says the system’s sodium-ion NCO architecture provides an ultra-safe design with “no fire and explosion,” without providing further details. The company’s technical literature lists UL9540A, UN38.3, MSDS and CE among the battery’s certifications.

The IP65-rated unit measures 483 mm × 254 mm × 754 mm and weighs 110.5 kg. It supports modular parallel connections, enabling installers to increase storage capacity for larger residential systems, according to the company.

AuroraCell says the 48 V sodium-ion NCO battery is compatible with hybrid inverter platforms from Victron Energy, Deye, Solis, Growatt, Schneider Electric, SMA, Sungrow, Sofar Solar, Studer and Ingeteam. Additional inverter brands can be supported on request.

The new product comes with a 20-year warranty.