European energy storage provider FENECON and battery firm A123 Systems have formed a strategic partnership for battery storage deployment in the U.S.

The corporate collaboration comes as a response to growing demand for commercial and industrial battery energy storage systems (BESS) in the U.S., the companies say. Together, the two firms provide “complementary strengths” for the American storage market.

FENECON’s world-class, open-source FENECON Energy Management System (FEMS) and access to U.S. distribution networks combine perfectly with A123’s lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery technology.

“The United States is a key growth market for FENECON, and our partnership with A123 Systems gives us an important foundation to accelerate market development while building out a localized supply chain,” says Thomas Goesswein, CEO of FENECON. “For C&I customers in the U.S., this partnership promises the combination of a dependable battery with our FEMS intelligent energy management, system integration, and multiple applications. This is where the strengths of A123 and FENECON are well matched.”

Together, the two firms intend to leverage that combined expertise, developing and commercializing innovative and intelligent energy storage solutions for commercial and industrial.

Expanding a shared vision

Throughout the partnership, FENECON and A123 will be exploring further opportunities for energy storage commercialization, company representatives say. These strategies will closely align with FENECON’s individual plans, building and scaling battery systems at its U.S. headquarters and manufacturing facility in Greenville, South Carolina.

The collaboration will draw on A123’s battery technology for target applications like industrial and manufacturing sites, large retail facilities, and EV charging locations. Additionally, FENECON’s energy storage systems will support peak shaving, solar integration, and backup power throughout the U.S.

“By bringing together A123’s commercially fielded LFP battery technology and FENECON’s software-driven integration expertise, we are combining key competencies to strengthen the supply of innovative energy storage solutions tailored to the unique requirements of different markets and stakeholder needs,” says Dr. Jack Li, general manager of A123 Systems.

“We believe this strategic collaboration brings together compatible strengths that can accelerate innovation, deliver greater value to our customers, and contribute to a more resilient and competitive energy storage industry.”

— Solar Builder magazine