Atlas Copco unveils its largest energy storage system for heavy industry

31 March, 2025

The unit is particularly suited for rental applications in sectors such as construction, mining, events, ports, and emergency power, where reliability and efficiency are paramount.

Advanced technology and seamless integration

Built with LiFePO4 lithium iron phosphate batteries, the ZBC 1000-1200 incorporates Atlas Copco’s proven energy storage technology. A key feature is its advanced thermal management HVAC system, ensuring consistent performance across a temperature range of -20°C to +50°C, even at higher altitudes. Additionally, a winterisation fit enhances its resilience in extreme conditions.

Ease of use is another highlight of the system. With a simple power lock socket, the ZBC 1000-1200 is a ‘plug and play’ solution, eliminating the need for complex cable installations and reducing setup time.

Scalability and hybrid capability

The ZBC models offer significant flexibility, operating as standalone units or in hybrid mode alongside multiple energy sources, including renewables. For applications requiring even greater power output, the system can be scaled up, with up to 16 units connected in parallel to deliver an impressive 16MW.

In industries such as construction and events, where temporary power is essential, the ZBC 1000-1200 reduces the need for multiple generators, leading to a significant cut in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Additionally, its use minimises fuel management, servicing, and maintenance, resulting in lower operational costs.

Enhancing generator efficiency and grid stability

When integrated as a hybrid solution, the ZBC 1000-1200 enhances the lifespan and efficiency of generators, regardless of manufacturer. Acting as the primary power source, the battery storage system enables generators to operate as a secondary backup, reducing wear and tear while optimising fuel usage.

In mining operations, where multiple generators are traditionally used to create a power plant, the introduction of a single energy storage system can achieve the same power output. The 1MW ZBC system is well-suited for microgrid applications, supporting equipment such as electrical shovels, tunnel boring machines, and substations.

The system is also an ideal emergency power solution, capable of delivering instant power in the event of a grid failure. “Generators typically experience a delay, but the new battery system eliminates the risk of blackouts and provides operators with peace of mind that electricity will be available immediately, so they can keep their critical operations running,” explains Onur Talas, Product Marketing Manager at Atlas Copco Portable Power and Flow.

Addressing high initial load applications

Industries requiring high initial loads, such as port operations, will benefit from the new 1MW energy storage system. Large modern cranes, for instance, require up to ten times their nominal power at start-up. The ZBC 1000-1200 is designed to handle these surges seamlessly, ensuring stable and efficient operations.

Intelligent management and remote monitoring

To optimise performance, the ZBC 1000-1200 is equipped with Atlas Copco’s ECO Controller, an intuitive energy management system that integrates performance data, centralises hybrid energy sources, and coordinates system components, including inverters, batteries, and solar charge controllers.

Additionally, all ZBC battery pack systems are compatible with Atlas Copco’s FleetLink telematics system, enabling real-time remote monitoring. This feature allows users to optimise fleet usage, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance operational efficiency.

“Our next-generation energy storage solution is our biggest yet, with 1MW power and an energy capacity of 1200kWh packed into an HQ 20ft container,” Talas continues. “It has been specially designed to provide a reliable and long-lasting power solution for the most critical rental applications that require a constant and significant flow of energy.”

Expanding energy storage options

With the launch of the ZBC 1000-1200, Atlas Copco now offers a portfolio of eight battery energy storage systems, ranging from the compact ZBP portable variants (starting at 2kW) to this latest 1MW containerised solution. The company continues to develop innovative energy storage solutions to meet the growing demand for sustainable and efficient power alternatives.

For further details on Atlas Copco’s energy storage systems, click here: Energy Storage Systems - Atlas Copco UK