Utilization of Lithium-Ion Batteries in Offshore Platform

Abstract

Abstract This paper explores lithium ion battery as an alternative battery technology and discusses the benefits it can offer to stationary UPS application in offshore platform. A case study on utilization of lithium ion battery in Al Yasat's, Belbazem feed project is presented with an intent to implement in EPC stage and to reduce total cost of ownership. The paper studies conventional batteries, which are used for the majority of ADNOC offshore platforms. It considers their limitations and surveys alternative battery technologies in different industry sectors. Based on industry trend, market share and technical performance, lithium ion batteries are considered as the preferred candidate. The paper also focuses on different international standards like IFC, IEEE standards for safety and other recommendations. Conventional batteries due to large size, heavy weight, and low energy density require more space. Additionally, the performance, service life, and total cost of ownership further limit's their usefulness and advantages. Unlike conventional batteries, lithium ion batteries have emerged in recent years as small size, light weight, and high energy density solution which offers significant advantage in terms of footprint and infrastructure cost. This makes lithium ion battery as a potential candidate for offshore platform where space is premium. Under normal condition there is no electrolyte leakage and no outgassing, thus eleminating stringent ventilation requirement, minimizes HVAC energy consumption and contribute to energy optimization. Lithium-ion batteries have long life and very low maintenance requirements. There is no fluid level to measure and maintain. Lithium ion batteries require advanced battery management system (BMS) for their safety. Smart features in BMS offers an array of monitoring capabilities, including system state-of-charge and state of- health which further reduces maintenance burdens. As Lithium ion batteries offers high energy density solution they and are prone to thermal runway. The highest level of safety is ensured with sound material & process control during manufacturing, choice of stable battery chemistry, proper cell & system design and testing in compliance to industry standards. The proposal to use lithium ion battery for stationary UPS application in ADNOC offshore is novel. It highlights strengths and discusses various aspects of lithium ion batteries which lowers total cost of ownership and ensure safer design in offshore platform. The paper presents various norms currently available in international standards, guidelines and presents manufacturer recommendations, which can be helpful to various stakeholders in specifying design requirement while considering lithium ion battery in offshore.