SOCOMEC Showcases SKID-Based 2-Hour BESS At Intersolar

SOCOMEC, an electrical network control and safety solution provider turned battery energy storage system (BESS) maker, showcased its latest product, SMARTSYS M5000, at Intersolar Europe 2026. 

This system integrates a containerized storage platform with a pre-assembled medium-voltage (MV) SKID that contains a transformer, switchgear, and a power conversion system (PCS). Equipped with 314 Ah cell-based battery packs, the storage section offers a rated DC busbar voltage range of 1,164 to 1,476 V and a storage capacity of up to 5 MWh. This stored energy is converted to a 3-phase power of up to 2.5 MW at 690 V via the bidirectional 2.5 MW PCS. This power output is transmitted to a 36 kV MV grid through the step-up transformer, providing grid ancillary services or integrating existing renewable energy into the grid. According to the company, the system is also suitable for EV charging and behind-the-meter applications. 

The SKID is delivered pre-assembled, pre-wired, and factory-tested. In addition, the containerized BESS can be installed straightforwardly without the need for on-site wiring. These attributes help installers or developers with reduced procurement and engineering complexity, limited on-site work, either as a standalone BESS or part of a broader project. This 2.5 MW/5 MWh BESS can be scaled up to a 2.5 MW/20 MWh system by integrating 4 storage units of 5 MWh each behind a single transformer (690 V/36 kV). 

In terms of safety, its liquid-cooled battery pack containers are built with a heat-resistant metal enclosure and modular architecture to restrict flame propagation during a fire incident. It is equipped with smoke, temperature, and gas sensors for early fire detection, which are followed by fire suppression through the spreading of aerosol. Additionally, for extreme case scenarios due to failure of the first line of defenses, the system can vent smoke and release pressure via forced ventilation systems. Meanwhile, it also comprises deflagration vents to prevent the container’s structural deformation. 

For real-time monitoring and controlling, the system integrates its digital energy management platform, SoLive PRTO BESS. Users can visualize the real-time running status of a large-scale BESS project via this platform. They can also analyze the accumulated data and predict an optimized operational schedule for efficient system operation. The company also displayed this digital platform during the exhibition.