GE to Increase Availability of Global Wireless Network Coverage with New Backup Power System

GE Energy Storage Technologies, a unit of GE Transportation, introduced the Durathon™ battery, the next generation of industrial energy storage for the telecom industry.

The Durathon battery can be used as a backup system for hybrid telecom sites where non-grid sources of power are utilized, as well as in traditional base stations that are powered by robust and/or unstable electrical grids.

Because of its proprietary chemistry, the Durathon battery lasts up to ten times longer than traditional telecom backup storage systems, which reduces the total cost of ownership and ensures network efficiency and optimization for wireless providers. The product of a $160 million investment by GE, the Durathon battery is also temperature insensitive, allowing for coverage in remote areas with extreme weather conditions, an important attribute as wireless providers continue to expand coverage around the globe.

"As the telecommunications industry continues to expand, it’s essential that providers have reliable backup power to ensure continuous coverage for consumers in all areas of the globe," said Prescott Logan, General Manager GE Energy Storage Technologies. "The Durathon battery will change the way providers think about backup energy storage and its importance in maintaining network availability."

GE’s new battery plant is located in Schenectady, New York, and is creating 350 new high tech jobs in the region. The facility has the advantage of being in close proximity to GE Global Research in Niskayuna, where advances to the battery chemistry were developed. The batteries, which are a critical piece of energy storage systems, will rely heavily on new materials, new manufacturing technologies and intelligent controls.