Caterpillar Inc. announced the introduction of Cat® Compact ESS, a new mobile battery energy storage system that supplements traditional mobile power solutions to reduce noise and enable the deployment of renewable energy sources. Additionally, customers using efficiency gains to minimise fuel usage can reduce fuel costs, associated maintenance requirements and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions when compared to continuous generator set usage.

Designed for rapid plug-and-play installation and integration, the Cat Compact ESS module can be used with any combination of diesel, natural gas, or renewable energy sources such as solar or wind. It stores surplus power from these energy sources and then discharges from its reserve as needed. It is equipped with an energy control module (ECM), an onboard management system that continuously monitors load levels and automatically switches between generator set power and stored energy as necessary, only using the generator set for recharging or accommodating higher loads.

Cat Compact ESS modules are designed for applications requiring long periods of low loads, such as night-time loads, around-the-clock low loads, and time periods when a silent supply of energy is required. When used in these applications, the Cat Compact ESS modules can increase power efficiency, resulting in decreased fuel usage, associated GHG emissions and maintenance costs over time.

Based on expected power needs, the Cat Compact ESS modules are ideal for equipment charging stations, offices, auxiliary buildings and security systems at construction, mining, oilfield, and pipeline worksites; remote agriculture operations such as irrigation; outdoor concerts, golf tournaments and other special events; and emergency response and other temporary power applications.

The Cat Compact ESS also enables remote monitoring and control of all connected systems, including generator sets, solar PV, inverters, grid, batteries, meters, and sensors.

Caterpillar offers two models of the Cat Compact ESS module, with configurations available for 50 Hz or 60 Hz applications. The Cat XES60 provides up to 56.8 kWh of capacity, while the Cat XES120 delivers up to 127.9 kWh of capacity. They are available now from Cat dealers in North America, Europe and Australia, with other territories to follow throughout the year.