Creslow Energy Solutions – a local manufacturer of clean energy storage systems – has recently been established in South Africa.

“By using the latest technology in our clean energy storage products, we provide an environmentally friendly and sustainable solution for the safe and efficient storage of renewable energy which can be used when required,” explains Kriban Govender, Creslow Energy Solutions’ managing director.

“Solar off-grid energy systems are gaining popularity in South Africa, as a form of renewable energy which is clean, emission and noise-free, sustainable, safe and cost efficient,” Govender adds.

“The Creslow team is committed to the production of high-quality products, which meet stringent international and local quality, safety and environmental specifications. We also strive to source locally manufactured components and to enhance the creation of job opportunities and skills upliftment", he says.

“Our advanced battery systems have been developed for use in businesses and households to optimise energy requirements and to ensure the continuity of operations during power outages. We have also developed highly efficient industrial lithium batteries, specifically for forklifts, golf carts and E-bikes.

“Creslow’s clean energy storage systems operate in two ways – either as a battery backup system which works in conjunction with an inverter, or as an off-grid system which also requires an inverter and solar panels. In each case, it is critical that the system is installed by a certified technician.

“Although our forklift battery systems provide up to 900 Ah and 52 V as standard, these battery capacities are not limited. A critical advantage of the company’s solutions is that each battery can be customised to suit specific requirements. Our specialists, with a thorough understanding of distinct South African conditions, are geared for the development of energy storage solutions to suit local conditions and market requirements,” he says.

The company’s modular approach for the home energy storage systems (ESS) market allows battery packs to be connected in parallel, which means any specific total capacity can be achieved. Market assessment indicates that for a typical large home to be off-grid, approximately 4 x 5 kWh battery packs are necessary.

For backup systems required during load shedding, a single 5 kWh battery ensures the continuity of essential services – including the fridge, TV, lighting, Wi-Fi and cell phone chargers – for up to seven hours.

To complement its Solarsmart Home ESS range, Creslow has introduced storage cabinets to store the battery system. These cabinets are available in 3, 4, 5 or 6-unit configurations.

The company’s forklift industrial lithium batteries have integrated smart capabilities and are compatible with existing chargers, so there is no need to invest in specific chargers or so-called smart chargers. The rapid charging capability means these batteries can be charged for short periods of time during working hours, typically during the lunch period and when the machine is not being used. This is an important advantage over conventional lead-acid batteries which require between six and eight hours to charge fully.

Unlike lead-acid batteries, lithium phosphate batteries do not contain any acid. There is therefore no risk of acid spills, which is major safety concern in industry. In addition, disposal of lead-acid batteries must be controlled, to ensure toxic elements are not released into the environment. Furthermore, because lithium does not produce any heat or fumes, which is common with lead-acid, these batteries are recommended for warehouse environments.

All of the company’s products are enhanced by a specially configured battery management system (BMS) which prevents over charging, over utilisation and controls other critical maintenance procedures, to significantly extend the battery’ service life.

Safety features include an automatic cut off when the battery is fully charged or depleted. Creslow’s lithium cells have a safe working temperature for suitability to cold storage and chill room environments. These units have a discharging temperature from -35°C to 65°C and a charging temperature range from 0°C to 65°C.

The company’s team assesses market trends and introduces new products to meet specific demand. Autosmart, with all the benefits of Lithium technology, has recently been released for use in golf carts and caravans.

The company has engaged with partners in Europe to ensure the highest standards within international best practise for battery design.

These clean energy products are available throughout the country from a network of specially selected distributors and are supported by the Creslow Energy Solutions team.

Contact JS Spies, Creslow Energy Solutions, Phone 083 655-2066, js@energysolution.co.za, www.energysolution.co.za