VRB Energy develops and manufactures vanadium redox flow batteries (VRB), specializing in large-scale energy storage solutions. As a subsidiary of Ivanhoe Electric, the company focuses on providing reliable and sustainable energy storage systems that support renewable energy integration. Their flagship product, the VRB-ESS®, represents the largest vanadium flow battery available in the market, certified to UL1973 product safety standards. The system excels in performance with a lifespan exceeding 25 years and offers virtually unlimited charge and discharge cycles, making it particularly suitable for utility-scale applications and industrial sites requiring consistent power supply.
Battery Technology
The VRB-ESS technology utilizes vanadium ions in liquid electrolyte to store electrical energy through reduction and oxidation processes. This approach differs significantly from conventional lithium-ion batteries, offering enhanced safety features and improved recyclability without toxic components or heavy metals. The system incorporates proprietary innovations, including cost-effective ion-exchange membranes and specialized electrolyte formulations that optimize performance and durability.
The technology allows for flexible scaling from 100 kW to over 100 MW, making it adaptable for various applications. These systems maintain consistent performance throughout their operational life, showing minimal degradation even after thousands of cycles. The VRB-ESS® technology particularly excels in long-duration storage applications, providing reliable power output for extended periods.
One distinctive feature of VRB Energy’s systems is their ability to operate efficiently in various climate conditions while maintaining stable performance. The liquid electrolyte design allows for easy maintenance and component replacement, contributing to the system’s extended lifespan and reduced operational costs.
Recent Projects
In early 2024, VRB Energy established a significant partnership with Shanxi Red Sun, resulting in a $55 million investment deal to construct new manufacturing facilities. The agreement includes building two factories in China with 300 MW and 200 MW capacities, respectively. Additionally, VRB Energy is establishing VRB USA, a wholly-owned subsidiary in Arizona, with plans for a 50 MW annual production facility.
The joint venture structure assigns 51% ownership to Red Sun and 49% to VRB Energy, with Red Sun committing to a $35 million capital increase through 2025. VRB Energy received $20 million to support its U.S. operations, strengthening its presence in North American markets.
Investors
VRB Energy maintains strong financial backing from several institutional investors. Ivanhoe Electric holds a majority stake in the company, providing substantial support for technological development and market expansion. BCPG PLC, a prominent renewable energy company in the Asia-Pacific region, invested $24 million in 2021 to accelerate VRB Energy’s global storage business.
The recent partnership with Shanxi Red Sun Co. Ltd. brought an additional $55 million investment in 2024, supporting manufacturing expansion. Sparton Resources Inc. maintains a minority position through its subsidiary VanSpar Mining Inc., holding a 9.8% equity interest in the company.
Business Details
Location: Tempe, Arizona, USA
Website: https://vrbenergy.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/12593501
