Case Studies

The Challenge

A Valen client, a New Zealand telecommunications provider with a wide network of cell sites, faced challenges with their existing backup power systems. Their infrastructure relied on 190Ah VRLA batteries housed in standardized cabinets. Upgrading the backup power without replacing the cabinets posed a significant constraint, limiting options for alternative solutions. 

Additionally, the existing battery setup lacked advanced monitoring capabilities. Without real-time insights into battery health or charge status, the client struggled to strategically deploy technicians to critical sites. This limited visibility put the reliability of their network at risk, particularly during outages or peak demand periods. 

The Solution Process

Valen Power engaged with the client using a structured approach to identify and address their needs: 

Discover: Valen’s team worked closely with the client to understand the operational and technical limitations of their existing infrastructure. Key pain points included the need for a higher-capacity battery that fit the current cabinets and advanced monitoring for better asset management. 

Design: Valen proposed 48V 80Ah front –terminal lithium batteries. These offered twice the capacity in the same form factor as the 190Ah VRLA batteries, while incorporating comprehensive monitoring features. 

Deliver: Valen supplied the lithium batteries with plug-and-play compatibility, enabling a smooth transition without cabinet replacements. The batteries communicated natively with the client’s existing systems, simplifying installation and operation. 

Support: Post-installation, Valen provided ongoing technical support to ensure optimal performance and to help the client leverage the full capabilities of the monitoring system. 

The Solution

Valen’s 48V Front Terminal lithium batteries were specifically designed to address the client’s challenges: 

1. Form Factor Compatibility: The batteries fit seamlessly into the existing cabinet infrastructure, avoiding the costly and time-intensive process of cabinet replacement. 
2. Increased Capacity: By doubling the runtime in the same form factor, the new batteries provided the client with significantly extended backup power.
3. Advanced Monitoring Features: The batteries offered real-time data, including: 
   • State of Health (SoH) 
   • State of Charge (SoC) 
   • Individual cell voltages 
   • Current flow 
   • Over-temperature and over-voltage alarms 

These features enabled the client to monitor their assets remotely, reducing site visits and optimising technician deployment. 

The Outcomes

Valen’s solution delivered measurable benefits to the client: 

• Extended Runtime: The new batteries doubled the runtime of backup power, ensuring uninterrupted service during outages and giving technicians more time to respond to issues. 

• Proactive Maintenance: With advanced monitoring, the client could prioritize critical sites, optimize technician schedules, and reduce unnecessary site visits. 

• Enhanced Network Reliability: The combination of increased capacity and real-time data significantly improved the reliability of the client’s telecommunications network. 

• Significant Cost Savings: A key outcome of this project was significant cost savings. By designing front-terminal lithium batteries that fit into the existing racks, Valen enabled the client to expand their energy storage capacity without the need for costly infrastructure modifications. This maximized the use of available space while reducing installation time and expenses, delivering an efficient and cost-effective solution.

“Valen were the only ones who could sort our issues out. Their solution not only fit seamlessly into our existing infrastructure but also gave us the tools we needed to enhance network reliability and optimise our operations.” — Client Representative 

Valen’s tailored approach and innovative battery technology empowered the client to overcome their challenges, ensuring a resilient and efficient telecommunications network for their customers. 

Reach out to the Valen team to discuss how we can help you increase reliability in your comms sites.