Mobile DC fast charger
Country of application:
Norway
Scope of innovation
☐ Office work
☒ Production / Service supply process
Sector-specific
☐ Yes / please, specify sector(s):
☒ No (relevant for all sectors)
Description of the needs
The construction and heavy machinery sectors are increasingly looking to adopt sustainable practices, especially when it comes to reducing their carbon emissions. Traditional diesel-powered machinery contributes a lot to greenhouse gas emissions, and moving to electric machinery, while better for the environment, comes with its own set of challenges. These sectors face difficulties when thinking about flexibility, charging in different locations, especially in remote places with little or no electricity infrastructure, and how to manage and save costs effectively. Additionally, with worldwide agreements like the Paris Agreement focusing on electrification and sustainability, there is a clear need for tools and solutions that support this transition.
The mobile DC fast charger from PSW Power & Automation provides an answer to these challenges. It promotes the switch from diesel to electric, leading to significant reductions in carbon emissions. Its portability allows all kinds of machinery to be charged easily at their location, removing the challenge of transporting heavy equipment to fixed stations. For places with unreliable or no electricity connections, the charger’s built-in battery ensures consistent operations. The easy-to-use design means less wasted time, improving work efficiency. Thinking about cost, the charger allows multiple users and a pay-as-you-use system. By catering to rental companies that have always relied on diesel machinery, PSW is not just offering a product but starting a bigger shift towards environmentally-friendly alternatives in the industry. Hence, the mobile DC fast charger is a vital tool for a more sustainable future in construction and heavy machinery.
Description of the solution
The mandates of the Paris Agreement, coupled with stringent governmental regulations, are inducing industries to embrace electric power and other green energy alternatives. Operating with a B2B approach, PSW serves rental entities that traditionally provide diesel-operated equipment to major European corporations.
PSW Power & Automation delivers mobile DC fast chargers for heavy machinery, helping to decarbonise the construction industry. The mobile chargers help to accelerate the switch from diesel to electric equipment on building sites.
While car owners traditionally drive to fixed charging points, such as homes or public charging stations, the scenario is different for colossal electric machinery like excavators as moving heavy machinery to a charging station is impractical, costly and time-intensive. Moreover, such machines often require quick charges to eliminate downtime. Thus, Jens Hjorteset, the Director Business Development at PSW, remarks, “Transitioning from diesel to electric machinery on construction sites is hastened by our mobile chargers.”
Flexibility with Mobile DC Fast Charging
PSW’s innovative mobile DC fast charger is especially crucial in areas where the grid infrastructure isn’t robust. This solution boasts of an inbuilt battery, facilitating the uninterrupted charging of various electric machines, including construction equipment, trucks, and even boats.
The DC charger’s mobility is vital for electrifying diverse sectors. The charger is modular and can be expanded, offering a range of energy and power capacities. It comes in multiple sizes, from a sizable 20-ft container for major tasks to a compact unit transportable by a trailer.
Efficiency in Electrified Operations
The mobile DC charger streamlines processes at electrified job sites, translating into both time and cost savings. It has an uncomplicated connect and disconnect mechanism, and it can function alongside the grid or independently in an off-grid setting. Further the recharge is versatile, accommodating both AC grid and DC charging stations. The charger also incorporates a distinct payment system, making it feasible for multiple companies at a site to use the charger and pay exclusively for the power they consume. Significantly, this charger is pivotal in promoting greener practices in sectors that use electric-heavy machinery.
The integrated DC charging solution guarantees a secure and consistent power transfer from the grid to onboard batteries. This advanced charging system automatically charges vessels based on:
• Grid capacity power ramp
• Dynamic power limit determined by available charging duration
• Electricity cost
Moreover, beyond offering DC charging solutions, PSW also provides optimised solutions that include on-shore batteries and enhancing the infrastructure of local grids and port networks.
Features include:
• Infrastructure for both low and high voltage
• Certified containerised solutions
• User-friendly interface
• Hassle-free installation
Description of the effect
The mobile DC fast charger from PSW Power & Automation provides a holistic sustainable solution that addresses both the environmental and operational challenges faced by the construction and heavy machinery sectors. Its role in promoting electrification and reducing carbon emissions, combined with its operational efficiencies, positions it as a pivotal product in the drive towards a more sustainable future:
Decarbonization of construction and heavy machinery: The primary advantage of the product is that it facilitates a shift from diesel-powered machinery to electric equipment. Diesel machinery emits a significant amount of greenhouse gases. By aiding the transition to electric, these chargers help reduce the carbon footprint of the construction sector.
Flexibility and accessibility: The mobile nature of the charger ensures that even large machinery like excavators, which cannot be easily moved to a fixed charging station, can be efficiently charged at their operating sites. This ensures the feasibility and convenience of electric machinery adoption.
Support for areas with inadequate grid infrastructure: The integrated battery within the charger allows it to operate even in areas where the grid might not be robust or available. This makes it suitable for remote construction sites and ensures that electric machinery can be used universally.
Optimization of electrified operations: The system can operate either in conjunction with the grid or in an off-grid mode. This means that sites can benefit from electrification without the need for extensive infrastructure overhaul. Also, the ease of connection and disconnection means minimal downtime, making operations more efficient.
Cost savings and payment flexibility: With an individual payment system, multiple entities at a construction site can share the charging unit and pay for only the power they use. This offers cost savings and reduces the need for multiple charging stations.
Supports global electrification trends: As the push towards electrification is driven by global agreements like the Paris Agreement and national regulations, the demand for such mobile DC fast chargers is bound to increase. PSW’s product is thus positioned to cater to a growing market, further driving the adoption of electric machinery.
Facilitating the B2B Model for Green Energy Transition: By serving rental companies that typically provide diesel-powered equipment, PSW is indirectly driving the shift towards greener alternatives within the heavy machinery rental industry. This can have a ripple effect, leading to broader industry change.
Company/companies that developed/implemented/offer the innovation
PSW Power & Automation stands as a hallmark in the realm of electrification and renewable energy. The company’s core expertise lies in designing and integrating electrical power systems, energy storage, electrical infrastructure, and control systems. Their commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions manifests in specialized sectors, including:
• Topside products and power systems
• Comprehensive electrical infrastructure and energy solutions
• Expertise in offshore, yard, marine, and land-based industries
• Advanced shore power systems and energy storage systems
Located at Ågotnes, the PSW Power & Automation facility stretches across 5,500m^2, housing state-of-the-art workshops and testing arenas. This expansive setup capacitates the company to construct a myriad of power systems tailored to client needs. One of the unique features of this facility is its 22kV indoor test station. Here, the company can conduct exhaustive FAT (Factory Acceptance Test) and “heat run” assessments alongside clients, ensuring all systems are optimal before reaching their final destination.
The facility is armed with:
• A high-voltage test station with power up to 12 MVA
• A dedicated test area for battery systems
• An advanced automation laboratory
PSW Power & Automation envisions itself as the most trustworthy and solution-driven service provider in the energy sector. Rooted in interdisciplinary proficiency, honesty, and innovation, PSW strives to tackle every client challenge. Their pledge is to offer safe, dependable, and cost-efficient solutions.
Certifications:
Their commitment to excellence is reflected in the various accolades and certifications they have garnered, including:
• ISO 9001-2015, ISO 14001:2015, and ISO 45001:2018
• Registration with Achilles JQ/ EPIM
• Authorization as an electro contractor by Direktoratet for Samfunnssikkerhet & Beredskap (DSB)
• Certification as an EX workshop by DNV/Presafe
• EKOM authorization by Elektroniske Kommunikasjonsnett (PT)
The vision of PSW Power & Automation is to be recognized by their clients, employees and owners as a preferred service contractor to the energy industry worldwide based on engineering solutions. Quality, Health, Safety and Environment is an essential part in all operations within the PSW Group.
Contact
PSW Power & Automation
Bleivassvegen 7
5363 Ågotnes
Norway
Phone: +47 56 31 34 00
E-mail: firmapost@psw.no
9. Additional information