Karlsruhe Institute of Technology was named as winner of the The smarter E AWARD 2025 in the Category "Oustanding Projects" for the application BiFlow.
BiFlow is an innovative project from Germany’s Karlsruhe Institute of Technology. It was installed in a student residence in Bruchsal to enhance its existing solar PV system. The project combines a lithium-ion battery with a vanadium redox flow battery, which provides storage for both electricity and heat. An energy management system creates synergies between both battery system chemistries and optimizes overall efficiency. Another key innovation is the thermal coupling module. It recovers waste heat from the redox battery’s electrolyte tanks, which are modified to operate at up to 50 degrees Celsius instead of the typical 40 degrees. This waste heat is transferred into the building’s heating systems, eliminating the need for traditional hot water storage. The BiFlow system is projected to save over €18,000 and up to 20 tons of CO2 every year. This impressive project lowers rental prices for 150 students and offers a live showcase of the energy transition.
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1
76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen
Germany
Mr. M.Sc. Lakshimi Narayanan Palaniswamy
+49 721 60828160
lakshimi.palaniswamy@kit.edu
Exhibitor at ees Europe
Booth B0.230