Redox flow battery system

Abstract

A redox flow battery system has pairs of battery modules, each battery module housed in a container and each container having an access portal for accessing the housed battery module, has a shared service corridor, either side of which each one of each pair of containers or each pair of battery modules are located and where the access portal of each container is accessible from the shared service corridor, to provide access to an equipment block of each battery module, wherein the equipment block is installable into and removable from (i.e. may slide in and out of) its container by moving the equipment block through the container access portal to or from the shared service corridor. This system reduces the footprint required to deploy a redox flow battery system, facilitating its deployment in constrained spaces, whilst ensuring the system can be serviced and maintained effectively and safely.

Description

[0001] Redox Flow Battery System

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to a redox flow battery system comprising a shared service corridor.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Redox flow batteries, such as vanadium redox flow batteries, are known.

[0006] Redox flow batteries comprise positive and negative electrolytes that are circulated through respective electrochemical half-cells or stacks thereof. On charging a redox flow battery electrical energy is converted to chemical energy, whilst the opposite occurs when discharging a redox flow battery.

[0007] Typical flow battery cell and typical flow battery cell stack configurations are illustrated in Figures 7A and 7B, respectively, and described below. During the lifespan of a commercial redox flow battery (which is tens of years), it must be serviced and maintained.

[0008] The present inventors have found a solution for implementing redox flow battery technology in real-world settings.

[0009] PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0010] There is a need for improvements in the real-world deployment of redox flow battery technology.

[0011] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] In accordance with a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a redox flow battery system (or arrangement) comprising at least one pair of battery modules, each battery module housed in a container, wherein each container comprises an access portal for accessing at least a portion of the battery module housed therein, the redox flow battery system further comprising a shared service corridor, wherein the or each pair of containers, of the or each pair of battery modules, are located opposite to each other with the shared service corridor therebetween, and wherein the access portal of each container faces onto and / or is accessible from the shared service corridor.

[0013] In a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of installing and / or removing an equipment block from a container of the system of the first aspect. ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The invention reduces the footprint required to deploy a redox flow battery system, whilst at the same time ensuring the system can be serviced and maintained effectively and safely throughout its lifespan. In turn, the level of investment (in cost and / or land usage) required to deploy a redox flow battery system is reduced. Furthermore, the redox flow battery system of the invention may be deployed in smaller locations that otherwise could not support this battery technology (such as in built-up areas).

[0015] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 is a schematic of a redox flow battery system in plan view;

[0017] Figure 2 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a redox flow battery system;

[0018] Figure 3 is a perspective view of one container with a battery module house therein;

[0019] Figure 4 is a side view of redox flow battery system in section, with a spanning member spanning across the shared service corridor;

[0020] Figure 5 is a plan view of a redox flow battery system with a forklift in the shared service corridor;

[0021] Figure 6 is a partial perspective view of a container and an interlocked temporary platform; and

[0022] Figures 7A and 7B are schematic illustrations of a typical flow battery cell and a typical flow battery cell stack, respectively.

[0023] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] The invention concerns a redox flow battery system (or ‘arrangement’ or ‘apparatus’) comprising at least one pair of battery modules, each battery module housed in a container, wherein each container comprises an access portal (e.g. an access door) for accessing at least a portion of the battery module housed therein.

[0025] The redox flow battery system further comprises a shared service corridor, wherein the or each pair of containers, of the or each pair of battery modules, are located (or positioned) opposite to each other (e.g. to face one another, or face-to-face) with the shared service corridor therebetween. For example, by opposite to each other, it could also be said the containers of a pair of containers have been rotated by 180° with respect to each other, e.g. about their respective central vertical axis (in the z-axis direction, see Figure 2). By ‘with the shared service corridor therebetween’ it is meant, for example, that the or each pair of containers are located (or positioned) on opposite sides of the shared service corridor and / or define the shared service corridor therebetween.

[0026] The access portal of each container faces onto and / or is accessible from the shared service corridor.

[0027] Herein, where the context allows, the term ‘redox flow battery system’ may be interchanged with the term ‘redox flow battery arrangement’ or the term ‘redox flow battery apparatus’.

[0028] Preferably, the shared service corridor comprises a (e.g. elongate) surface or floor that, for example, may be used to access the battery modules of the system. More preferably, the shared service corridor comprises a (e.g. elongate) surface or floor and a free volume of space directly above the surface or floor. Preferably, the shared service corridor is straight and / or is a rectangle in plan view. Therefore, preferably, the free volume of space directly above the shared service corridor floor is cuboid in shape and / or has a rectangular cross-section in plan view.

[0029] Preferably, the shared service corridor has a length in its longitudinal direction (see the y axis in Figure 1 below). Preferably, the shared service corridor has a width in its lateral direction (see the x axis in Figure 1 below). Preferably, the shared service corridor has two opposite sides along its length.

[0030] Preferably, the or each pair of containers define the shared service corridor. Preferably, the distance between the or each pair of containers defines the width of the shared service corridor. Preferably, the or each pair of containers share the same portion of the shared service corridor for servicing, for example.

[0031] Preferably, the distance between the or each pair of containers is (generally) the same, for example as illustrated in Figure 1 . Preferably, the or each pair of containers are positioned perpendicularly (e.g. such that the container lengthwise direction is perpendicular) to the shared service corridor (e.g. to the shared service corridor longitudinal direction).

[0032] Preferably, the width of the shared service corridor is (generally) consistent along the length of the shared service corridor. Preferably, the width of the shared service corridor is at least 1 m, more preferably at least 1 .5 m, still more preferably at least 2 m, most preferably at least 2.5 m, for example at least 3 m. Preferably, the width of the shared service corridor is at most 6 m, more preferably at most 5.5 m, still more preferably at most 5 m, most preferably at most 4.5 m, for example at most 4 m or at most 3.5 m. Preferably, the width of the shared service corridor is from 1 m to 6 m, more preferably from 2 m to 5 m, still more preferably from 3 m to 4 m. In one option, the width of the shared service corridor is from 3 m to 3.5 m. In a further option, the width of the shared service corridor is from 3.2 m to 3. 4 m, e.g. around 3.3 m.

[0033] Preferably, where the redox flow battery system comprises at least two pairs of battery modules, the containers on each side of the shared service corridor are aligned. For example, where the system comprises at least two pairs of battery modules, all containers located on a first side of the shared service corridor are aligned and all containers located on a second, opposite side of the shared service corridor are aligned, e.g. aligned in the shared service corridor longitudinal direction. By aligned, it is preferably meant that the front sides (see below) of the containers are aligned. More preferably, by aligned it is meant that both the front sides and rear sides (see below) of the containers are aligned.

[0034] Preferably, the containers are hexahedral. For example, the containers are cube or cuboid shaped. In one option, the containers are rectangular cuboid shaped. Preferably, the containers have a rectangular cross-section in plan view.

[0035] It is preferred that each container has a front side, a rear side, and two lateral sides connecting the front and rear sides. Preferably, each container also has a bottom side and a top side. Herein, where the context allows, any occurrence of the term ‘side(s)’ may be interchanged with ‘side wall(s)’.

[0036] Preferably, the front side of each container faces onto and / or is accessible from the shared service corridor. Optionally, this feature may be interchanged with the feature: the access portal of each container faces onto and / or is accessible from the shared service corridor.

[0037] Preferably, each container has two long side walls. Preferably, the two long side walls are the lateral sides of the container. Preferably, each container has two short side walls. Preferably, the two short (or small) side walls are the front and rear sides. The two short side walls may also be referred to as end walls. Therefore, preferably, the or each pair of containers are positioned with their short (e.g. front) side walls adjacent (e.g. facing onto) the shared service corridor. In a preferred embodiment, the or each pair of containers are located (or positioned) such that one of the short side walls (e.g. the front side wall) of each container defines at least a portion of a shared service corridor side wall.

[0038] Preferably, each container has a base (or bottom wall) and a roof (or top wall). Preferably the base and the roof are the bottom and top sides of the container, respectively. For the avoidance of doubt, if the containers are rectangular cuboid shaped, the bottom and top sides of the container are preferably long sides.

[0039] Preferably, the containers have a length of at least 3 m, more preferably at least 3.5 m, still more preferably at least 4 m, most preferably at least 4.5 m, for example at least 5 m or at least 5.5 m, e.g. at least 6 m. Preferably, the containers have a length of at most 9 m, more preferably at most 8.5 m, still more preferably at most 8 m, most preferably at most 7.5 m, for example at most 7 m or at most 6.5 m, e.g. at most 6 m. Preferably, the containers have a length of from 3 m to 9 m, more preferably of from 4 m to 8 m, still more preferably of from 5 m to 7 m, e.g. around 6 m.

[0040] Preferably, the containers have a width of at least 1 m, more preferably at least 1 .5 m, still more preferably at least 2 m, e.g. at least 2.5 m. Preferably, the containers have a width of at most 5 m, more preferably at most 4.5 m, still more preferably at most 4 m, most preferably at most 3.5 m, for example at most 3 m, e.g. at most 2.5 m. Preferably, the containers have a width of from 1 m to 5 m, more preferably of from 2 m to 3 m, e.g. around 2.5 m.

[0041] Preferably, the containers have a height of at least 1 m, more preferably at least 1 .5 m, still more preferably at least 2 m, e.g. at least 2.5 m. Preferably, the containers have a height of at most 5 m, more preferably at most 4.5 m, still more preferably at most 4 m, most preferably at most 3.5 m, for example at most 3 m, e.g. at most 2.5 m. Preferably, the containers have a height of from 1 m to 5 m, more preferably of from 2 m to 3 m, e.g. around 2.5 m. In a further example, the containers have a height of from 2 m to 3.5 m, more preferably of from 2.5 m to 3 m.

[0042] The dimensions discussed in the three paragraphs above are preferably external container dimensions.

[0043] More preferably, the containers are intermodal containers (e.g. 20 ft intermodal containers or 40 ft intermodal containers), also known as ‘ISO’ containers. For example, the intermodal containers may have a standard high of 8.5 ft or a ‘high cube’ height of 9.5 ft. Preferably, the intermodal containers have a width of 8 ft.

[0044] Preferably, the front side and / or the rear side of each container comprises an airflow means. For example, the front side wall and / or the rear side wall comprises perforations or vents for allowing air to flow into and out of the system. For example, it is necessary for air to flow into and out of the system when the battery module is air-cooled. Preferably, the lateral sides, the top side, and / or the bottom side of each container do not comprise an airflow means. Further, preferably, the lateral sides, the top side, and / or the bottom side of each container do not comprise a battery module access portal.

[0045] Preferably, the battery module housed within a container can be serviced (or accessed) from only the front (and / or) rear sides of the container.

[0046] As discussed above, each container comprises an access portal for accessing at least a portion of the battery module housed therein. Preferably, the access portal may be an access door or an access window. For example, the access portal may be opened by opening a door (or doors), by opening a roller panel, or by removing or sliding a panel. Most preferably, the access portal comprises a pair of doors hinged at opposite lateral edges of the front side of each container.

[0047] Preferably, the access portal is located or disposed in the front side of each container (or in a short side of each container). Therefore, generally, each access portal is preferably a front access portal. For example, the access portal may generally be located in (or take up) the upper third, the upper half, or the upper two thirds of the front side of each container. As such, preferably, the bottom two thirds, the bottom half, or the bottom two thirds (respectively) of the front side of the container remains in place on opening the access portal. Preferably, the access portal generally extends for the full width of its container.

[0048] Preferably, each container comprises an access portal for accessing at least: a redox flow cell stack(s) and, optionally, an electrolyte distribution manifold(s) of the battery module. In a preferred example, the redox flow cell stack(s) (and optionally the electrolyte distribution manifold(s)) of the battery module are accessed by first removing an equipment block (as described further below) via the access portal.

[0049] Preferably, the containers of the redox flow battery system are generally the same or identical.

[0050] As discussed above, the or each pair of containers are located opposite to each other with the shared service corridor therebetween. Preferably, opposing containers (e.g. excluding any surface graphics or such like) are generally a mirror image of each other. In one example, opposing containers (e.g. excluding any surface graphics or such like) are (generally) symmetrical in a vertical plane that bisects the shared service corridor along its length.

[0051] Preferably, each battery module comprises (or each container is configured to receive) at least one equipment block, wherein an equipment block comprises at least one battery module component. Each equipment block is preferably of a predetermined length. Preferably, the at least one battery module component comprises or is a redox flow cell stack. For example, an equipment block could be one or more battery module components. For example, an equipment block may be a redox flow cell stack. Where the context allows, herein the term ‘equipment block’ may be interchanged with ‘equipment unit’.

[0052] Preferably, the length of the equipment block is at least 1 m, more preferably at least 1 .5 m, still more preferably at least 2 m, most preferably at least 2.5 m. Preferably, the length of the equipment block is at most 4.5 m, more preferably at most 4 m, still more preferably at most 3.5 m, most preferably at most 3 m. Preferably, the length of the equipment block is from 1 m to 4 m, more preferably from 2 m to 3 m, for example around 2.5 m, e.g. around 2.7 m.

[0053] Preferably, the equipment block has an elongate shape (or is elongate). Preferably, the equipment block is cuboid shaped, more preferably the equipment block has an elongate cuboid shape.

[0054] Preferably, the width of the equipment block is at least 45 cm, more preferably at least 50 cm, still more preferably at least 55 cm, most preferably at least 60 cm. Preferably, the width of the equipment block is at most 80 cm, more preferably at most 75 cm, still more preferably at most 70 cm, most preferably at most 65 cm. Preferably, the width of the equipment block is from 40 cm to 80 cm, more preferably from 50 cm to 70 cm, for example around 60 cm. Preferably, the width of the equipment block does not include any bearings (e.g. roller bearing) or such like extending from the sides of the equipment block.

[0055] Preferably, the height of the equipment block is at least 30 cm, more preferably at least 35 cm, still more preferably at least 40 cm, most preferably at least 45 cm. Preferably, the height of the equipment block is at most 65 cm, more preferably at most 60 cm, still more preferably at most 55 cm, most preferably at most 50 cm. Preferably, the height of the equipment block is from 30 cm to 60 cm, more preferably from 40 cm to 55 cm, for example around 49 cm or around 50 cm.

[0056] Preferably, each equipment block comprises: an equipment (or power) block frame, a redox flow cell stack, and optionally, an electrolyte distribution manifold. Herein, where the context allows, the term equipment block may be interchanged with the term power block.

[0057] Preferably, each battery module comprises (or each container is configured to receive) from 1 to 6 equipment blocks, more preferably from 1 to 5 equipment blocks. Most preferably, each battery module comprises (or each container is configured to receive) from 1 to 3 equipment blocks. Preferably, each battery module comprises (or each container is configured to receive) up to 6 equipment blocks, more preferably up to 5 equipment blocks, still more preferably up to 4 equipment, most preferably up to 3 equipment blocks. For example, each container may be configured to receive a left, a central, and a right equipment block. It is noted at this point, for example, that a left equipment block (when viewed from the front) of a first container may directly oppose a right equipment block (when viewed from the front) of a second container that is face-to- face (or opposes) the first container. As such, it is preferred that opposing equipment blocks share the same volume of shared service corridor space for servicing and / or when installing and removing the equipment into / from their respective containers. More generally, it is preferred that opposing containers (e.g. of the same pair of containers) share the same volume of shared service corridor space for servicing and / or when installing and removing their respective opposing equipment blocks.

[0058] Preferably, an equipment block is installable into and removable from a container by moving (or transferring) the equipment block laterally (preferably, in its lengthwise direction) through the container access portal, e.g. from or into the shared service corridor, respectively. By ‘in its lengthwise direction’, it is preferably meant, where the equipment block is elongate for example, end first. For example, with reference to Figure 1 , moving (or transferring) the equipment block laterally means moving the equipment block in the x axis direction. For example, this may be done for servicing / maintainingthe equipment block components in the shared service corridor. Preferably, the equipment block may be removed from the container in its entirety by moving (or transferring) laterally as described directly above. Moving (or transferring) the equipment block laterally may also be referred to as sliding the equipment block laterally.

[0059] Preferably, the equipment block(s) and the container(s) comprise complimentary (or corresponding) parts of a fixing means for removably installing the equipment block in the container. More preferably, the equipment block comprises bearings (e.g. roller bearings) and the container comprises corresponding rails, or vice versa, for installing the equipment block into the container.

[0060] Preferably, directly opposing equipment blocks (e.g. each belonging to alternate ones of a pair of containers) cannot be installed into or removed from their respective containers concurrently. This is because, preferably, the width of the shared service corridor is not large enough to fit two equipment blocks lengthwise. By directly opposing, it is meant, for example, directly opposing across the shared service corridor (e.g. see directly opposing containers 25 in Figure 1).

[0061] Preferably, the equipment blocks of the redox flow battery system are generally the same or identical.

[0062] Preferably, the width of the shared service corridor is at least 100 % the length of the equipment block, more preferably at least 105 %, still more preferably at least 110 %, for example at least 115 %, e.g. around 120 %. Preferably, the width of the shared service corridor is at most 195 % the length of the equipment block, more preferably at most 180 %, still more preferably at most 160 %, most preferably at most 150 %, for example at most any one of 145 %, 140 %, 135 %, 130 %, and 125 %. Preferably, the width of the shared service corridor is from 100 % to 150 % the length of the equipment block, more preferably from 105 % to 140 %, still more preferably from 110 % to 130 %, for example from 115 % to 125 %. In another preferred option, the width of the shared service corridor is from 100 % to 130 % the length of the equipment block, more preferably from 105 % to 125 %.

[0063] Preferably, the width of the shared service corridor is at least 30 % the length of the containers, more preferably at least 35 %, still more preferably at least 40 %, for example at least 45 %, e.g. at least 50 % or at least 55 %. Preferably, the width of the shared service corridor is at most 80 % the length of the containers, more preferably at most 75 %, still more preferably at most 70 %, for example at most 65 %, e.g. at most 60 % or at most 55 %. Preferably, the width of the shared service corridor is from 30 % to 80 % the length of the containers, more preferably from 40 % to 70 %, still more preferably from 50 % to 60 %.

[0064] Preferably, the length of the equipment block is at least 25 % the length of the containers, more preferably at least 30 %, still more preferably at least 35 %, most preferably at least 40 %, for example at least 45 %. Preferably, the length of the equipment block is at most 70 % the length of the containers, more preferably at most 60 %, still more preferably at most 55 %, most preferably at most 50 %, for example at most 45 %. Preferably, the length of the equipment block is from 25 % to 75 % the length of the containers, more preferably from 30 % to 60 %, still more preferably from 40 % to 50 %, for example around 45 %.

[0065] As discussed above, the redox flow battery system comprises at least one pair of battery modules, and thus at least one pair of containers, located opposite to each other with the shared service corridor therebetween. If the redox flow battery system comprises more than one pair of containers, there will be at least two containers (e.g. one from each pair) on each side of the shared service corridor. The at least two containers (e.g. one from each pair) on a side of the shared service corridor may be arranged (or located) along the length of the shared service corridor (with respect to each other) and / or may be stacked.

[0066] Preferably, the redox flow battery system comprises a group (or groups) of containers located along the same side of the shared service corridor, wherein the containers of a group are directly adjacent to (or abut) each other (e.g. in the shared service corridor longitudinal direction). Preferably, the containers of a group are directly adjacent to (or abut) each other at / along their lateral sides, more preferably at / along their long side walls. In this option, the system comprises at least two pairs of battery modules. Directly adjacent containers may also be described, for example, as being located side-by-side. Preferably, both sides of the shared service corridor have a group (or groups) of containers that are directly adjacent. Preferably, opposing groups of containers (excluding any surface graphics or such like) are generally a mirror image of each other and / or are located face-to- face.

[0067] Preferably, the redox flow battery system comprises a first group (or first groups) of containers located along a first side of the shared service corridor (e.g. in the shared service corridor longitudinal direction) and a second group (or second groups) of containers located along a second side (opposite to the first side) of the shared service corridor (e.g. in the shared service corridor longitudinal direction), wherein the containers of each group are directly adjacent to (or abut) each other.

[0068] Preferably, each group of (directly adjacent) containers on one side of the shared service corridor has a corresponding opposite group of (directly adjacent) containers on the opposite side of the shared service corridor.

[0069] Preferably, a group of containers has at least two containers, more preferably at least three, still more preferably at least four. Preferably, a group of containers has at most eight containers, more preferably at most seven containers, still more preferably at most six containers, for example at most five containers or at most four containers. Preferably, a group of containers has from two to six containers, more preferably from three to five containers, or has four containers.

[0070] In an alternative option, a group of containers has at least four containers, more preferably at least six, still more preferably at least eight, e.g. at least ten or at least twelve. Preferably, a group of containers has at most twenty containers, more preferably at most eighteen containers, still more preferably at most sixteen containers, for example at most fourteen containers or at most twelve containers. Preferably, a group of containers has from eight to sixteen containers, more preferably from ten to fourteen containers, or has twelve containers.

[0071] Groups of containers may be separated along the shared service corridor longitudinal direction, for example, by a free space or by a group control unit (e.g. a string control unit). Preferably, the containers of a group are on the same level (e.g. are in the same layer, as described below). Preferably, the containers of a group are located on the same side of the shared service corridor.

[0072] More generally, where the system comprises an opposing group (or groups) of containers, it can preferably be said the system comprises two rows of containers with the shared service corridor therebetween.

[0073] Preferably, the redox flow battery system comprises at least two pairs of containers (of at least two pairs of battery modules, respectively), wherein a second pair of containers is stacked above (e.g. on top of) a first pair of containers. In this option, the redox flow battery system comprises at least two layers of containers.

[0074] Preferably, the redox flow battery system comprises at least two (or at least three or at least four) (e.g. stacked) layers of containers. Optionally, the redox flow battery system comprises from two to ten (e.g. stacked) layers of containers, more preferably from two to eight, still more preferably from two to six. Most preferably, the redox flow battery system comprises (or has) two to four (e.g. stacked) layers of containers. For example, the redox flow battery system comprises (or has) two (e.g. stacked) layers of containers. For example, the redox flow battery system may have any number of layers of containers from one to ten.

[0075] Preferably, the layers are corresponding (or identical) layers of stacked containers. For example, each container in a first (bottom) layer will have one or more containers stacked above it corresponding to the number of layers of containers.

[0076] By way of example, the redox flow battery system may comprise 12 groups of containers, each group of containers having four containers. Six groups of containers may be located, for example, on a first side of the shared service corridor. Preferably, the six groups of containers on the first side of the shared service corridor are arranged across two layers, e.g. three groups in a first (bottom) layer and three groups in a second (top) layer (and stacked directly on top of the first (bottom) layer). Preferably, the final six groups of containers are located on a second side of the shared service corridor, directly opposing the six groups of containers located on the first side of the shared service corridor.

[0077] Preferably, the redox flow battery system comprises a string of at least two battery modules, wherein the at least two battery modules are electrically connected in series, series-parallel, or parallel. More preferably, the at least two battery modules of a string are electrically connected in series.

[0078] Preferably, a string of battery modules has at least two battery modules, more preferably at least three, still more preferably at least four. Preferably, a string of battery modules has at most eight battery modules, more preferably at most seven battery modules, still more preferably at most six battery modules, for example at most five battery modules or at most four battery modules. Preferably, a string of battery modules has from two to six battery modules, more preferably from three to five battery modules, or has four battery modules.

[0079] In one option, a string of battery modules are housed in respective containers that are directly adjacent to each other and / or stacked. For example, a string of four battery modules may be housed in four containers arranged in a two-by-two configuration (e.g. two adjacent containers with a further two adjacent container stacked on top).

[0080] Preferably, a string of battery modules are housed in a group of containers as described above (e.g. one battery module per container). Preferably, the system comprises a string (or strings) of electrically connected (e.g. series connected) battery modules housed in respective containers of the group (or groups) of containers. Preferably, the battery modules of a string are located on the same side of the shared service corridor. Preferably, both battery modules of a pair of battery modules are not in the same string.

[0081] Preferably, the strings of the redox flow battery system are connected electrically in parallel, series-parallel, or series; more preferably in parallel.

[0082] Preferably, the battery modules (e.g. adjacent battery modules, which are preferably connected electrically in series) of a string are connected by an electrical connection means, wherein the electrical connection means passes directly through adjacent walls (e.g. side / lateral walls) of the respective containers housing the battery modules of the string. Preferably, the electrical connection means comprises cable, wire and / or busbar for connecting the battery modules electrically. A particular advantage of this feature is that additional external conduit trays and / or cable trenches are not required when installing the system. This saves cost, installation times, and floorspace. Preferably, each container comprises an internal cable tray (or cable passage) for housing at least a portion of an (intra-battery module) electrical connection means (e.g. intra-battery module cable, wiring, and / or busbar). Optionally, the term ‘cable tray’ may be interchanged with ‘electrical connection means tray’, because the tray may house electrical connections other than cable. Preferably, each container comprises at least a portion of an (intra-battery module) electrical connection means (e.g. intra-battery module cable, wiring, and / or busbar), preferably located within an internal cable tray (or cable passage). Preferably, the internal cable tray (or cable passage) is accessible from the shared service corridor (and / or from the front side of the container).

[0083] Preferably, the front side (e.g. a front side wall) of each container comprises a removable panel or removable door for accessing the internal cable tray / passage, e.g. for accessing the internal cable tray / passage from the shared service corridor. Preferably, the internal cable tray / passage generally runs along the full width of the container. As such, preferably, the removable panel or removable door has generally the same width as the width of the container.

[0084] Optionally, one or both ends of the internal cable tray / passage are open at a lateral side (e.g. lateral side wall) of the container. In another preferred option, one or both ends of the internal cable tray / passage comprises: a removable panel(s), a door(s), and / or a brush faceplate, for passing the electrical connection means (or a portion thereof) between containers, e.g. via the container lateral sides.

[0085] Preferably, each container of a group of directly adjacent containers comprises an internal cable tray / passage. As such, preferably, the respective internal cable trays / passages of the group of containers correspond (or align). Thus, preferably, a group of containers comprise a continuous group cable tray / passage for housing a group intra-battery module electrical connection means.

[0086] Preferably, each string of battery modules further comprises (or is controlled by) a string controller (or string control unit) for controlling the operation of the battery modules in the string. Preferably, a string control unit is located adjacent to each group of containers housing the battery modules under the control of the string control unit. Preferably, the string control unit is accessible (e.g. by way of a panel or a door) from the shared service corridor. As discussed above, string control units may be located between groups of containers in the shared service corridor longitudinal direction. Preferably, each string control unit is paired with a second string control unit. Preferably, each pair of string control units are located opposite to each other with the shared service corridor therebetween.

[0087] In one option, where the redox flow battery system comprises at least four containers on each side of the shared service corridor, and the containers are arranged across (at least) two layers, it may be said the redox flow battery system comprises two container arrays with the shared service corridor therebetween.

[0088] Preferably, the system further comprises a spanning member (or gantry member) for spanning above the shared service corridor, the spanning member (or gantry member) configured for hoisting an equipment block (e.g. in a vertical direction) positioned in the shared service corridor and / or transferring an equipment block between the shared service corridor and one or either of a pair of containers. Where the context allows, herein the term ‘spanning member’ may be interchanged with ‘gantry member’. A particular advantage of the spanning member is that it negates the need for plant machinery (e.g. a forklift) in the shared service corridor to move in any direction other than the shared service corridor longitudinal direction. As such, the width of the shared service corridor can be further reduced.

[0089] Preferably, the spanning member is configured for hoisting an equipment block up to or down from a pre-defined height for installing or removing the equipment block into one or either of a pair of containers (e.g. an interlocked pair of containers as described below). For example, the spanning member is configured for hoisting an equipment block up from or down to a shared service corridor floor level or a higher predefined (e.g. platform or service) level.

[0090] Preferably, the spanning member is configured for transferring an equipment block laterally between the shared service corridor and one or either of a pair of containers (e.g. an interlocked pair of containers, as described below) via a respective container access portal.

[0091] Optionally, the spanning member comprises a cradle for receiving an equipment block. In one example, the spanning member (or, more specifically, the cradle) comprises rails that correspond with bearings (e.g. roller bearings) of equipment blocks (or vice versa). For example, the spanning member (or, more specifically, the cradle) comprises rails that correspond with equipment block receiving rails of the containers. In an alternative example, the spanning member (or, more specifically, the cradle) comprises bearings (e.g. roller bearings) that correspond with equipment block receiving bearings of the containers. More generally, it is preferred that the spanning member (or, more specifically, the cradle) comprises an equipment block receiving means that corresponds with an equipment block receiving means of the containers.

[0092] Preferably, the spanning member is configured to reversibly interlock with a pair of (e.g. accessible) containers. Preferably, the spanning member is configured to span the shared service corridor between an interlocked pair of containers (e.g. at a height above the interlocked pair of containers). By accessible containers, it is preferably meant a pair of containers of a topmost layer of containers, if there is more than one layer of containers.

[0093] Preferably, the spanning member is configured to reversible interlock with respective top sides (e.g. the roofs) of a pair of containers, more preferably with an attachment point or points disposed on the top side of each container of a pair of containers. As such, preferably, each container comprises an attachment point or attachment points for interlocking with a spanning member, for example on their top sides (e.g. roofs).

[0094] Preferably, the spanning member is configured to reversibly interlock with (e.g. frontmost) intermodal container corner castings of a pair of (e.g. accessible) containers. As such, preferably, the spanning member may interlock with four intermodal corner castings, two from each container.

[0095] Preferably, the spanning member comprises a structural scaffold, more preferably a lightweight structural scaffold.

[0096] In another option, where there are two or more pairs of containers adjacent to each other along the shared service corridor longitudinal direction, the spanning member is configured to move along the length of the shared service corridor. For example, the spanning member comprises wheels or rollers that optionally correspond with tracks or rails disposed in or on the top sides (e.g. roofs) of adjacent (e.g. groups of) containers on either side of the shared service corridor. In this example, the spanning member is preferably configured to collect an equipment block at one or either end of the shared service corridor and position the equipment block adjacent to any container access portal. This negates the need for plant machinery (such as forklifts) to travel down the shared service corridor at all. Thus, the width of the shared service corridor can be made smaller while at the same time the likelihood of damage caused by plant machinery is minimised.

[0097] Preferably, the redox flow battery system is a vanadium redox flow battery system. In another option, the redox flow battery system is any one of: iron / iron; iron / chromium; zinc / bromine, and organic. Preferably, the redox flow battery system is an aqueous or a non-aqueous redox flow battery system.

[0098] As described above, the system comprises battery modules, each battery module housed in a container. Where the context allows, the terms ‘battery module’ and ‘container’ may therefore be interchangeable, particularly when referringto a number or arrangement of battery modules or containers. Similarly, where the context allows, discussion of a container or a battery module in the singular may be adapted to refer to, respectively, containers and battery modules in the plural (and vice versa).

[0099] A preferred embodiment will now be described. Where the context allows, any feature(s) or alternative(s) of the first aspect described above may be incorporated into this preferred embodiment.

[0100] In the preferred embodiment, there is disclosed a redox flow battery system (or ‘arrangement’ or ‘apparatus’) comprising at least one pair of battery modules, each battery module housed in a container, wherein each container comprises an access portal (e.g. an access door) for accessing at least a portion of the battery module housed therein. The redox flow battery system further comprises a shared service corridor, wherein the or each pair of containers, of the or each pair of battery modules, are located (or positioned) opposite to each other (e.g. to face one another, or face-to-face) with the shared service corridor therebetween. The access portal of each container faces onto and / or is accessible from the shared service corridor. Preferably, each battery module comprises (or each container is configured to receive) at least one equipment block, an equipment block comprising at least one battery module component. Preferably, an equipment block is installable into and removable from a container by moving the equipment block laterally through the container access portal from or into the shared service corridor. Preferably, the equipment block has a length that is from 100 % to 150 % the width of the shared service corridor. Preferably, the redox flow battery system comprises two groups of containers, each group comprising four containers (and, therefore, four battery modules). Preferably, the two groups of containers are located (or positioned) opposite to each other (e.g. to face one another, or face-to-face) with the shared service corridor therebetween. Preferably, all containers on a first side of the shared service corridor are generally a mirror image of all containers on a second (opposite) side of the shared service corridor.

[0101] Battery modules have been discussed above. For example, the equipment block unit (or power block unit) preferably comprises: a power block frame, a redox flow cell stack, and optionally, an electrolyte distribution manifold. Preferably, each battery module further comprises any one or any combination of two or more of: at least one pair of electrolyte tanks (more preferably, a single pair of electrolyte tanks); at least one pair of pumps for pumping a positive and a negative electrolyte, respectively; a cooling means for cooling the electrolyte of the battery module; plumbing (e.g. pipework) for connecting a redox flow cell stack(s) to a pair of electrolyte tanks; an inter-battery module electrical connection means; a battery module controller; a battery module interface(s) for interfacing with the wider redox flow battery system, and a reference cell for monitoring the state-of- charge (SOC) of the battery module.

[0102] In a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of installing and / or removing an equipment block from a container of a system, the system comprising at least one pair of battery modules, each battery module housed in a container, wherein each container comprises an access portal for accessing at least a portion of the battery module housed therein, the redox flow battery system further comprising a shared service corridor, wherein the or each pair of containers, of the or each pair of battery modules, are located opposite to each other with the shared service corridor therebetween, wherein the access portal of each container faces onto and / or is accessible from the shared service corridor. Where the context allows, any features or alternative described above in the first aspect may be incorporated into this second aspect.

[0103] Preferably, the method comprises providing the system as defined in the first aspect.

[0104] Preferably, the method comprises installing the equipment block into a container by moving (or transferring) the equipment block laterally (preferably, in its lengthwise direction) through the container access portal. Preferably, the container is moved from (and / or is first positioned in) the shared service corridor. Preferably, the method comprises using the spanning member to move the equipment block laterally.

[0105] Preferably, the method comprises removing the equipment block from a container by moving (or transferring) the equipment block laterally (preferably, in its lengthwise direction) through the container access portal. Preferably, the method comprises using the spanning member to move the equipment block laterally.

[0106] Optionally, the method comprise moving (e.g. hoisting) the equipment block up or down within the shared service corridor. Preferably, the method comprises using the spanning member to move the equipment block up or down.

[0107] Optionally, the method comprises transferring the equipment block along the length of the shared service corridor (e.g. from or to one (or either) end of the shared service corridor). If installing an equipment block, the method comprises positioning an equipment block between a pair of containers, wherein it is intended to install that equipment block into one of the pair of containers. For example, the equipment block may be transferred along the length of the shared service corridor by lifting equipment or machinery, e.g. a forklift or such like.

[0108] The invention will now be described in more detail, without limitation, with reference to the accompanying Figures.

[0109] In Figure 1 , there is illustrated a plan view of a redox flow battery system 1 . The system 1 comprises a shared service corridors, the shared service corridor s having a length of 32 meters in the y axis direction (e.g. in its longitudinal direction) and a width of 3.3 meters in the x axis direction (e.g. in its lateral direction).

[0110] The shared service corridor 3 has two, opposite ends 5 illustrated using dashed lines. The shared service corridor 3 is accessed by one or either end 5. The shared service corridor 3 has two, opposite sides 7. A floor 9 of the shared service corridor 3 is generally level and is used to access the two rows of containers 11 , 11 ’ arranged along opposite sides (27, 33) of the shared service corridor 3. Immediately above the floor 9 of the shared service corridor 3 is a free volume of space 13.

[0111] The redox flow battery system 1 comprises a plurality of modified 20-foot ISO containers 15. Each container 15 has a front side wall 17, a rear side wall 19, two lateral sides walls 21 , a top side wall (or roof) 23, and a bottom side wall (or base) (not shown). Each container 15 houses a redox flow battery module (not shown). The front side walls 17 of each container 15 face onto the shared service corridor 3 and define the sides 7 of the shared service corridor 3.

[0112] Each container 15 has a length of around 6.6 meters and, therefore, the system 1 has an overall width (in the x axis direction) of around 16.5 meters. The system 1 has an overall length (in the y axis direction) of around 32 meters.

[0113] Furthermore, each container 15 has a directly opposing (face-to-face) container 15 on the opposite side of the shared service corridor s. Two containers 15 located opposite to each other with the shared service corridor 3 therebetween are referred to as a pair of containers 25.

[0114] All the containers 15 located on a first side 27 of the shared service corridor

[0115] 3 are aligned. The front side walls 17 of all containers 15 on the first side 27 are aligned (see dashed line 29). Likewise, the rear side walls 19 of all containers 15 on the first side 27 are aligned (see dashed line 31 ). Similarly, all the containers 15 located on a second side 33 of the shared service corridor 3 are aligned.

[0116] The redox flow battery system 1 comprises six groups of containers 35, 35’, 37, 37’, 39, and 39’. Groups 35 and 35’, 37 and 37’, and 39 and 39’, respectively, directly oppose each other on opposite sides (27, 33) of the shared service corridor 3; as such, the system 1 comprises three pairs of groups (e.g. 35 and 35’). Each group of containers has four containers 15, and each pair of groups has four pairs of containers 25. The containers 15 forming a group of containers (e.g. 35) are located directly adjacent to (or abut) each other at their lateral sides 21 .

[0117] For each group of containers (e.g. 35), there is a corresponding string control unit 41 . The string control unit 41 is for controlling the battery modules housed by the group of containers. The string control units 41 are aligned (in the longitudinal direction) with the shared service corridor 3 at the end of the group of containers (e.g. 35) that it controls. As such, string control units 41 may be sandwiched between groups (e.g. 35 and 37) along the length of the shared service corridor 3. Optionally, string control units 41 may be provided with boxing or paneling 43 such that each row 11 and 11 ’ has a continuous appearance along the length of the shared service corridor 3.

[0118] Each container 15 is configured to receive up to three power blocks 47; for example, container 15’ is illustrated with three power blocks 47 installed therein. A power block 47 has a length of 2.7 meters, a width of 68 cm, and a height of 49 cm. A power block 47 comprises (not shown) a power block frame, a redox flow cell stack (optionally comprising up to four sub-stacks), and an electrolyte distribution manifold.

[0119] A single power block (see 47 A) can fit, lengthwise, in the lateral direction (e.g. across the width) of the shared service corridor s. The arrow extending from power block 47A illustrates installing the power block 47A into container 15A by moving the power block 47A laterally through the container access portal (not shown) from the shared service corridor 3. To remove a power block 47 installed in a container 15, the power block 47 is moved laterally in the opposite direction into the shared service corridor 3.

[0120] Directly opposing power blocks 47B share the same volume 49 of shared service corridor 3 space when being installed into or removed from their respective containers 15.

[0121] Outline 51 is indicative of where a spanning member would be located when reversibly interlocked with a pair of containers 25 and spanning the shared service corridor 3 therebetween. Although Figure 1 is in plan view, in one option a second (or more) layer(s) of six groups of containers (e.g. 35), along with their corresponding string control units 41 , may be stacked directly on top of a corresponding first layer.

[0122] Figure is a perspective view of one embodiment of a redox flow battery system 1 . Similar features discussed above in relation to Figure 1 (sharing reference numerals) will not be discussed again here. The system 1 comprises a first (bottom) layer 53 of containers 15 and second (top) layer 53’ of containers 15 stacked directly on top of the first layer 53. Stacked containers 15 are stacked in the y axis direction. In Figure 2, no string control units are illustrated.

[0123] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a container 15, with elements of a battery module housed therein visible. Three power blocks 47 are installed in an upper portion of container 15. Each power block 47 has roller bearings 55 that correspond with T-rails (not shown), the T-rails attached to the top wall (or roof) 23 on the inside of container 15. The three power blocks 47, after disconnecting them from the rest of the battery modules electrically and fluidically, may be moved laterally (or slid) out of the container 15 via (or through) the access portal 57. The access portal 57 may be opened or closed by way of the pair of doors 59.

[0124] Container 15 also comprises an internal cable tray 61 for housing at least a portion of an (intra- battery module) electrical connection means. In Figure 3, the internal cable tray 61 comprises a fixed electrical connection means portion 63. The internal cable tray 61 has ends 65 in the lateral sides 21 of the container 15 and through which an electrical connection means may pass (e.g. into a corresponding internal cable tray of an adjacent container 15). The container 15 has intermodal container corner castings 67.

[0125] Figure 4 is a side sectional view of a pair of containers 25 with an interlocked spanning member 69. The spanning member 69 reversibly interlocks with the front corner castings 67 of the pair of containers 25 and spans above the shared service corridor 3, between the pair of containers 25. As illustrated in Figure 4, the spanning member 69 is being used to transfer power block 47 from the left container 15 into the shared corridor s by moving the power block 47 in a lateral direction via the container’s 15 access portal (not visible). The spanning member comprises a structural scaffold 73. Further, the spanning member 69 is configured for hoisting (see hoists 75) the power block 47 up and down within the shared service corridor 3.

[0126] In Figure 4, there is also illustrated a power block platform 71 . The power block platform 71 reversibly interlocks with front walls (not visible) of the pair of containers 25 (e.g. with their front, bottom corner castings; and / or with a dedicated interlocking means). The power block platform 71 functions as a platform for temporarily supporting a power block 47 above floor level, e.g. for servicing orfor transferring the power bock 47 between a forklift (or such like) and the spanning member 69.

[0127] In Figure 5, two opposing groups of containers (e.g. 35 and 35’) are illustrated with a shared service corridor 3 therebetween. Figure 5 demonstrates how a forklift 77 (or such like) need only travel in the y axis direction to transfer s power block 47 into and out of the shared service corridor 3.

[0128] In Figure 6, a temporary scaffold (or platform) 79 is illustrated. The temporary scaffold 79 reversibly interlocks with an interlocking means located at the front 17 of the container 15. For example, the temporary scaffold 79 reversibly interlocks with the front, bottom corner castings 67’ of the container 15. The temporary platform 79 may be used when servicing or installing components of the battery module housed within container 15; this is particularly advantageous when there is more than one layer of containers in a redox flow battery system.

[0129] In Figure 7A, there is illustrated a schematic drawing of a typical known design of a flow battery 110 with a single flow battery cell 111 having a negative electrode 112 and a positive electrode 114 separated by a separator 116. To drive electrochemically reversible redox reactions, a negative liquid electrolyte 117 is delivered from a storage tank 118 to the negative electrode 112 and a positive liquid electrolyte 119 is delivered from a storage tank 120 to the positive electrode 114. The separator 116 may be a micro-porous separator or an ion exchange membrane, functioning to separate the electrodes and electrolyte while allowing selected ions to pass through to complete the redox reactions. The flow battery 110 further comprises a first collector (or ‘terminal’) plate 122 and a second collector (or ‘terminal) plate 124 which are arranged adjacent the porous electrodes 112 and 114, respectively. The porous electrodes 112 and 114 are made from a material (e.g. carbon felt or carbon sheet) that is electrically conductive and catalytically active with regard to the liquid electrolyte 117 and 119, and preferably corrosion resistant. The collector plates are coupled to conductors 126 and 128 which complete a circuit through either an electrical power source 130 (for charging) or an electrical power load 132 (for discharging) via an electrical switch 134.

[0130] In Figure 7B, there is illustrated a schematic drawing of a typical known design of flow battery 110 comprising a stack of two flow battery cells. The flow battery 110 of Figure 1 B has a design that is generally common with that of Figure 1 A and as such the two figures share reference numbers for common features. By contrast to Figure 1 A, Figure 1 B additionally comprises a bipolar plate 136 which functions to physically separate, but electrically connect, the two cells of flow battery 110. Furthermore, flow battery 110 comprises a distribution (or ‘inlet’) manifold 139 (for distributing negative electrolyte 117, from a storage tank 118, to the two negative half cells of flow battery 110) and a corresponding collection (or ‘outlet’) manifold 141 (for collecting negative electrolyte 117 as it exits the two negative half cells of flow battery 110 and returning it to storage tank 118). The two positive half cells of the flow battery 110 likewise communicate with a distribution manifold 138 and a collection manifold 140. Although the flow battery cell stack 110 of Figure 1 B is illustrated as consisting of two cells, a flow battery cell stack may comprise several (and often from 20 to 50) cells arranged in electrical series.

[0131] Embodiments will be described further in the following clauses. Where the context allows, any features of the first aspect described above may be incorporated, including the incorporation of any alternatives.

[0132] Clause 1 . A redox flow battery system comprising at least one pair of battery modules, each battery module housed in a container, wherein each container comprises an access portal for accessing at least a portion of the battery module housed therein, the redox flow battery system further comprising a shared service corridor, wherein the or each pair of containers, of the or each pair of battery modules, are located opposite to each other with the shared service corridor therebetween, wherein the access portal of each container faces onto and / or is accessible from the shared service corridor.

[0133] Clause 2. A redox flow battery system as described in clause 1 , wherein the distance between the or each pair of containers defines the width of the shared service corridor. Clause 3. A redox flow battery system as described in clause 1 or clause 2, the system comprising at least two pairs of battery modules, wherein all containers located on a first side of the shared service corridor are aligned and all containers located on a second opposite side of the shared service corridor are aligned.

[0134] Clause 4. A redox flow battery system as described in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the battery module containers are cuboid.

[0135] Clause 5. A redox flow battery system as described in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the battery module containers are intermodal containers (e.g. 20 ft intermodal containers). Clause 6. A redox flow battery system as described in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein a short side wall of each container comprises the access portal.

[0136] Clause 7. A redox flow battery system as described in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein each battery module comprises (or wherein each container is configured to receive) at least one equipment block, wherein an equipment block comprises at least one battery module component.

[0137] Clause 8. A redox flow battery system as described in clause 7, wherein each equipment block is a power block comprising: a power block frame, a redox flow cell stack, and optionally, an electrolyte distribution manifold.

[0138] Clause 9. A redox flow battery system as described in clause 7 or clause 8, wherein each battery module comprises (or wherein each container is configured to receive) from 1 to 3 equipment blocks.

[0139] Clause 10. A redox flow battery system as described in any one of clauses 7 to 9, wherein an equipment block is installable into and removable from a container by moving the equipment block laterally through the container access portal from or into the shared service corridor.

[0140] Clause 11. A redox flow battery system as described in any one of clauses 7 to 10, wherein the equipment block comprises bearings (e.g. roller bearings) and the container comprises corresponding rails, or vice versa, for removably installing the equipment block into the container.

[0141] Clause 12. A redox flow battery system as described in any one of clauses 7 to 11 , wherein directly opposing equipment blocks: cannot be installed into or removed from their respective containers concurrently; and / or share the same volume of shared service corridor space when being installed into or removed from their respective containers.

[0142] Clause 13. A redox flow battery system as described in any one of clauses 7 to 12, wherein: the width of the shared service corridor is from 100 % to 150 % the length of the equipment block; the width of the shared service corridor is from 30 % to 80 % the length of the containers; the length of the equipment block is from 25 % to 75 % the length of the containers; and / or the length of the equipment block is from 1 m to 4 m.

[0143] Clause 14. A redox flow battery system as described in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the width of the shared service corridor is from 2 m to 5 m.

[0144] Clause 15. A redox flow battery system as described in any one of the preceding clauses, the system comprising a group (or groups) of containers located along the same side of the shared service corridor, wherein the containers of a group are directly adjacent to (or abut) each other.

[0145] Clause 16. A redox flow battery system as described in clause 15, the system comprising a string (or strings) of electrically connected (e.g. series connected) battery modules housed in respective containers of the group (or groups) of containers.

[0146] Clause 17. A redox flow battery system as described in clause 16, wherein the (e.g. adjacent) battery modules of the string are connected by an electrical connection means, wherein the electrical connection means passes directly through adjacent walls (e.g. side walls) of the respective containers housing the battery modules of the string.

[0147] Clause 18. A redox flow battery system as described in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein each container comprises an internal cable tray (or cable passage) for housing at least a portion of an (intra-battery module) electrical connection means.

[0148] Clause 19. A redox flow battery system as described in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the redox flow battery system comprises at least two layers of containers, preferably wherein the layers are corresponding (or identical) layers of stacked containers.

[0149] Clause 20. A redox flow battery system as described in any one of the preceding clauses, the system further comprising a spanning member for spanning above the shared service corridor, the spanning member configured for hoisting an equipment block positioned in the shared service corridor and / or transferring an equipment block between the shared service corridor and one or either of a pair of containers.

[0150] Clause 21 . A redox flow battery system as described in clause 20, wherein the spanning member is configured to reversibly interlock with a pair of containers and span the shared service corridor between the interlocked pair of containers (e.g. at a height above the pair of containers).

[0151] Clause 22. A redox flow battery system as described in clause 20 or clause 21 , wherein the spanning member is configured to reversibly interlock with intermodal container corner castings of a pair of containers.

[0152] Clause 23. A method of installing and / or removing an equipment block from a container of a system as defined in any one of clauses 1 to 22.

[0153] Clause 24. A method as described in clause 23, the method comprising providing a system as described in any one of clauses 1 to 22. Clause 25. A method as described in clause 23 or clause 24, wherein the method comprises installingthe equipment block into a container by moving the equipment block laterally through a container access portal from a shared service corridor.

[0154] Clause 26. A method as described in clause 23 or clause 24, wherein the method comprises removing the equipment block from a container by moving the equipment block laterally through a container access portal into a shared service corridor.

[0155] Clause 27. A redox flow battery system as described in any one of clauses 1 to 22, wherein the system is a vanadium redox flow battery system.

[0156] The invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments. However, it will be appreciated that variations and modifications can be effected by a person of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS:1 . A redox flow battery system comprising at least one pair of battery modules, each battery module housed in a container, wherein each container comprises an access portal for accessing at least a portion of the battery module housed therein, the redox flow battery system further comprising a shared service corridor, wherein the or each pair of containers, of the or each pair of battery modules, are located opposite to each other with the shared service corridor therebetween, wherein the access portal of each container faces onto and / or is accessible from the shared service corridor, wherein each battery module comprises (or wherein each container is configured to receive) at least one equipment block, an equipment block comprising at least one battery module component, and wherein an equipment block is installable into and removable from a container by moving the equipment block laterally through the container access portal from or into the shared service corridor.

2. A redox flow battery system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the distance between the or each pair of containers defines the width of the shared service corridor.

3. A redox flow battery system as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, the system comprising at least two pairs of battery modules, wherein all containers located on a first side of the shared service corridor are aligned and all containers located on a second opposite side of the shared service corridor are aligned.

4. A redox flow battery system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the battery module containers are cuboid.

5. A redox flow battery system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the battery module containers are intermodal containers (e.g. 20 ft intermodal containers).

6. A redox flow battery system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein a short side wall of each container comprises the access portal.

7. A redox flow battery system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein each equipment block is a power block comprising: a power block frame, a redox flow cell stack, and optionally, an electrolyte distribution manifold.

8. A redox flow battery system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein each battery module comprises (or wherein each container is configured to receive) from 1 to 3 equipment blocks.

9. A redox flow battery system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the equipment block comprises bearings (e.g. roller bearings) and the container comprises corresponding rails, or vice versa, for removably installing the equipment block into the container.

10. A redox flow battery system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein directly opposing equipment blocks: cannot be installed into or removed from their respective containers concurrently; and / or share the same volume of shared service corridor space when being installed into or removed from their respective containers.

11. A redox flow battery system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the width of the shared service corridor is from 100 % to 150 % the length of the equipment block; the width of the shared service corridor is from 30 % to 80 % the length of the containers; the length of the equipment block is from 25 % to 75 % the length of the containers; and / or the length of the equipment block is from 1 m to 4 m.

12. A redox flow battery system as claimed in anyone of the preceding claims, wherein the width of the shared service corridor is from 2 m to 5 m.

13. A redox flow battery system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, the system comprising a group (or groups) of containers located along the same side of the shared service corridor, wherein the containers of a group are directly adjacent to (or abut) each other.

14. A redox flow battery system as claimed in claim 13, the system comprising a string (or strings) of electrically connected (e.g. series connected) battery modules housed in respective containers of the group (or groups) of containers.

15. A redox flow battery system as claimed in claim 14, wherein the (e.g. adjacent) battery modules of the string are connected by an electrical connection means, wherein the electrical connection means passes directly through adjacent walls (e.g. side walls) of the respective containers housing the battery modules of the string.

16. A redox flow battery system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein each container comprises an internal cable tray (or cable passage) for housing at least a portion of an (intra-battery module) electrical connection means.

17. A redox flow battery system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the redox flow battery system comprises at least two layers of containers, preferably wherein the layers are corresponding (or identical) layers of stacked containers.

18. A redox flow battery system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, the system further comprising a spanning member for spanning above the shared service corridor, the spanning member configured for hoisting an equipment block positioned in the shared service corridor and / or transferring an equipment block between the shared service corridor and one or either of a pair of containers.

19. A redox flow battery system as claimed in claim 18, wherein the spanning member is configured to reversibly interlock with a pair of containers and span the shared service corridor between the interlocked pair of containers (e.g. at a height above the pair of containers).

20. A redox flow battery system as claimed in claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the spanning member is configured to reversibly interlock with intermodal container corner castings of a pair of containers.21 . A method of installing and / or removing an equipment block from a container of a system as defined in any one of claims 1 to 20.

22. A method as claimed in claim 21 , the method comprising providing a system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 20.

23. A method as claimed in claim 21 or claim 22, wherein the method comprises installing the equipment block into a container by moving the equipment block laterally through a container access portal from a shared service corridor.

24. A method as claimed in claim 21 or claim 22, wherein the method comprises removing the equipment block from a container by moving the equipment block laterally through a container access portal into a shared service corridor.

25. A redox flow battery system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the system is a vanadium redox flow battery system.

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