Altech Batteries, in partnership with AMPower, has launched a next-generation 384 V / 15 kWh sodium nickel chloride UPS battery designed specifically for Europe's pipeline infrastructure, promising enhanced safety and reliability in explosive environments.
- Launch of 384 V / 15 kWh sodium nickel chloride UPS battery system
- Designed for ATEX-classified explosive pipeline environments in Europe
- Drop-and-play replacement for lead-acid and nickel-cadmium batteries
- Fireproof, explosion-proof, maintenance-free with no hydrogen emissions
- Certified to multiple international safety standards with wide temperature tolerance
A New Benchmark for Pipeline Safety
Altech Batteries Limited, in collaboration with AMPower, has introduced a pioneering UPS battery system tailored for the demanding conditions of European gas and hydrogen pipeline infrastructure. This 384 V / 15 kWh sodium nickel chloride (SNC) battery is engineered to operate safely within ATEX-classified explosive zones, where traditional lithium-ion batteries are banned and legacy chemistries like lead-acid and nickel-cadmium face significant operational challenges.
Europe's extensive pipeline networks are critical arteries for energy transport, requiring uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) to maintain safety and control systems even during outages. Altech's new battery system addresses the pressing need for a safer, more reliable, and maintenance-free solution that can withstand extreme temperatures and hazardous environments.
Technical Innovation Meets Practical Deployment
The battery system features a sealed, explosion-proof design that eliminates hydrogen emissions and the need for ventilation or cooling equipment; common drawbacks of lead-acid and nickel-cadmium batteries. Its robust construction has passed rigorous third-party tests, including exposure to fires, saltwater immersion, and physical impacts, without hazardous failure.
Importantly, Altech's design aligns with existing UPS voltage standards, enabling a true drop-and-play replacement. Operators can swap out ageing lead-acid banks without costly rewiring or system redesign, significantly reducing downtime and capital expenditure.
Strategic Partnership and Market Potential
The partnership leverages Altech's European market access and engineering expertise alongside AMPower's large-scale manufacturing capabilities. AMPower, a subsidiary of the Chilwee Group, brings decades of experience producing sodium nickel chloride batteries, originally developed under General Electric's Durathon program.
With Europe's pipeline infrastructure aging and regulatory pressures mounting against hazardous battery chemistries, Altech's SNC UPS battery is positioned to capture a substantial replacement market. The battery's long cycle life, environmental advantages, and compliance with international safety standards make it an attractive alternative for operators seeking to future-proof their critical infrastructure.
A Paradigm Shift in Energy Storage for Critical Infrastructure
Altech Managing Director Iggy Tan highlighted the significance of this launch, emphasizing the battery's ability to exceed the stringent demands of explosive environments while offering a seamless upgrade path. As Europe accelerates its energy transition, solutions like Altech's SNC battery will be vital in ensuring the resilience and safety of essential energy networks.
While certification for marine and offshore applications is underway, the initial order secured signals strong market confidence. The coming months will be critical to watch how quickly adoption scales and how this technology reshapes the landscape of industrial UPS systems.
Bottom Line?
Altech’s explosion-proof UPS battery could redefine safety and reliability standards across Europe’s critical pipeline infrastructure.
Questions in the middle?
- How quickly will Altech scale production to meet anticipated European demand?
- What are the financial terms and volume details of the initial secured order?
- How will ongoing certification progress impact adoption in marine and offshore sectors?