Rolls-Royce accelerates battery container production

From 2021 onwards, MTU EnergyPacks are set to be manufactured in the Siemens-Technopark in Ruhstorf, Bavaria, where Rolls-Royce already has a production site.

The expansion of the production site will form a component of Rolls-Royce’s new Microgrid Solutions division, established by Rolls-Royce at the beginning of the year when it acquired a majority stake in the Berlin-based energy storage specialist Qinois, now operating under the name Rolls-Royce Solutions Berlin. 

Microgrids are smart local power networks that combine power generated from renewables such as solar and wind energy with conventional power generation and storage batteries. Currently, most MTU EnergyPacks are produced in Ruhstorf at Rolls-Royce subsidiary, MTU Onsite Energy Systems, with the main speciality being series production of large MTU-brand electrical gensets.

“We see growing demand for MTU EnergyPacks, since more and more customers are seeking on-site power generation solutions that use renewables,” commented Cordelia Thielitz, Vice President of the Microgrid Solutions division. “But when you use solar or wind power to generate electricity, you often need an interim solution for storage until it is actually consumed.”

The plan is for the three former factory halls of Siemens AG to be rebuilt, following the fitting of battery modules to a number of 40ft containers simultaneously, with subsequent testing, to be possible from early 2021. The facilities will include a showroom for customers, a warehouse, offices and adjoining rooms.

“We're delighted to have a renowned high-tech pioneer like Rolls-Royce join us in our Technopark,” added Stefan Florenz, head of Siemens Technopark Ruhstorf. “With its forward-looking battery technology, our new tenant will be a real asset to the park in the field of energy technology and systems. With Rolls-Royce here on site, both of us stand to gain from the creation of synergies and a strong trust-based partnership.”