As part of its diversification strategy, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has entered into a Technology Transfer Agreement with Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for the manufacture of space-grade Lithium-ion cells of various capacities utilising the technology developed by ISRO at its Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC).
In the presence of Dr. K. Sivan, Secretary, Department of Space & Chairman, ISRO and Mr. Atul Sobti, Chairman and Managing Director, BHEL, the Technology Transfer Agreement was signed by Mr. S. Biswas, Director (Engg, R&D), BHEL and Mr. S. Somanath, Director, VSSC. Other senior officials from BHEL and ISRO were also present during the signing ceremony.
ISRO has so far been sourcing space-grade Lithium-ion cells from foreign vendors and BHEL has been assembling and testing space-grade Lithium-ion batteries with such imported cells, for satellites and launch vehicles of ISRO.
This transfer of technology will enable BHEL to manufacture Lithium-ion cells in-house for ISRO and other suitable applications. The Lithium-ion technology can also be further extended for use in the emerging areas of energy storage and e-mobility. BHEL will set up a state-of-the-art facility for manufacturing these cells at its Bengaluru unit.