Saudi Aramco Achieves World-First with Flow Battery Energy Storage for Gas Well Operations

Dhahran, May 22 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) — Saudi Aramco has achieved a global first by successfully operating a megawatt-scale renewable energy storage system using an iron-vanadium flow battery to support gas production operations, the company announced on Thursday.

The 1-megawatt-hour system was deployed in Wa’ad Al Shamal in northwest Saudi Arabia and marks the first use worldwide of a flow battery as a solar energy backup for gas wells. The milestone was reached through a collaboration with Rongke Power (RKP), a global leader in flow battery technology.

Aramco stated that the battery system is based on patented technology developed in-house and is capable of supporting up to five gas wells over a 25-year lifespan. The technology is tailored to meet fluctuating energy demands and withstand the Kingdom’s high temperatures, delivering consistent performance in extreme weather.

“This pioneering flow battery system, developed by Aramco’s researchers, represents a significant breakthrough for the oil and gas sector,” said Ali Al-Meshari, Aramco’s Senior Vice President of Technical Services. “It offers greater flexibility in renewable energy storage and enhances energy efficiency across our operations.”

The flow battery uses liquid electrolytes stored separately and pumped through cells to generate electricity. This configuration enables frequent charging and discharging with minimal degradation, poses a lower fire risk, and allows for modular, cost-effective maintenance.

Unlike conventional solar backup systems that rely on lead-acid batteries, Aramco’s solution uses an improved electrolyte that requires less vanadium and operates across a broad temperature range—from -8°C to 60°C—without the need for thermal management systems.

The technology forms part of Aramco’s broader strategy to advance energy efficiency and invest in renewables, aligning with the company’s goal of achieving net-zero Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions from its wholly owned and operated assets by 2050.

Officials said the new system will enable greater energy independence for remote gas operations, reduce emissions, and deliver scalable, resilient performance in off-grid environments.