Hithium has launched a 55 megawatt hours (MWh) battery energy storage system (BESS) project in Razlog, southwestern Bulgaria.

The project, the largest in Eastern Europe, has been realised by Solarpro, a company specialising in energy generation and storage solutions across Europe.

The facility became operational in early June 2024, following the installation of Hithium's 16 energy storage containers, each with a 3.44MWh capacity.

Hithium's Block 3.44MWh container is an advanced liquid-cooled battery storage system. It utilises prismatic LFP [lithium iron phosphate] BESS cells with a 280Ah [amps per hour] capacity, known for their long cyclic lifetime.

The system is designed for stationary battery storage applications requiring top-tier safety, reliability and performance.

The BESS project stands out for its low levelised cost of storage which, when combined with superior thermal management, enhances energy throughput.

This is achieved by maintaining an optimal operating temperature and high energy density.

The system is equipped with a comprehensive thermal management system, fire protection system and a battery management system.

Hithium DACH [Germany, Austria and Switzerland] and northern and eastern Europe sales senior director As Kelson Li stated: “We are honoured to partner with Solarpro. By providing comprehensive technical and after-sales support throughout the project lifecycle, we aim to foster local expertise and expand the network in Europe.

“We believe our collaboration with Solarpro will help to accelerate the renewable energy transition and make a positive impact in the region.”

Solarpro CEO Krasen Mateev stated: “As strategic partners in this landmark project, we are excited to collaborate with Hithium in bringing this significant BESS utility to operation. This undertaking reflects Solarpro’s dedication to advance renewable energy infrastructure in Eastern Europe, ensuring a sustainable energy future for generations to come.”