What if battery storage systems simply couldn't catch fire?
In this episode of the Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague sits down with Matt Ward, President of Etica AG, to explore a revolutionary battery technology that's changing the game for fire safety in battery energy storage (BESS). Matt discusses their patented immersion cooling technology that uses dielectric fluid to completely surround battery cells, preventing thermal runaway and eliminating fire risks.
Key topics covered:
How immersion cooling technology works and why it's superior to traditional air or liquid cooling
The challenge of getting UL 9540A certification when your batteries won't burn during testing
Why major cities like New York are perfect markets for non-flammable battery storage
The growing demand for battery storage, driven by data centers, EV charging, and grid stability needs
Navigating Foreign Entities of Concern (FEOC) regulations and supply chain challenges
The "earn, save, protect" value stack of battery storage systems
Why fire safety is becoming the key differentiator in urban energy storage projects
Matt shares insights from his transition from founding SolMicrogrid (acquired by Morgan Stanley) to joining Etica AG. He explains how this technology could unlock battery installations in locations previously considered too risky - including rooftops and inside buildings in major metropolitan areas.
Whether you're a developer, asset owner, or simply interested in the future of energy storage, this episode reveals how immersion cooling could be the next generation of battery technology that makes fire-safe energy storage a reality.
Connect with Matt Ward
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattward-energy/
https://eticaag.com/
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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 10GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 350kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. CPS America has offices in California, New Jersey, and Texas. Learn more at https://www.chintpowersystems.com/
00:00 Introduction to Immersion Cooling
00:38 Welcome to Clean Power Hour
01:03 CPS America Sponsorship
01:54 Scaling Up in Solar
02:45 Fire Safety in Battery Storage
03:04 Introducing Etica Ag
05:04 Immersion Cooling Technology
05:49 UL Certification Challenges
10:18 Market Applications and Products
12:33 US Storage Market Trends
17:38 Supply Chain and Sourcing
19:35 Future of Immersion Cooling
01:54 Closing Remarks and Contact Information
