Saft (News - Alert) will support Green Charge Networks’ (GCN) role in a $92 million Smart Grid Demonstration Project and will utilize the Synerion 24M high-energy lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries to supply energy storage systems totaling close to one megawatt-hour.

Saft designs and manufactures high-tech industrial batteries and Green Charge Networks (GCN) specializes in smart grid, and energy storage and management technology.

This demonstration project is led by New York’s Consolidated Edison, which initiated the multi-year demonstration project in 2010.

GCN is responsible for the installation and operation of a network of Smart Storage and Generation Units (SSGUs) in the distribution grid that communicate directly with Con Edison. Many locations including convenience stores, hotels and parking garages in the New York City area will be reviewed before selecting sites for installation of grids.

“We are honored to work with GCN and play a role in this forward-thinking program,” said Blake Frye, vice president of Sales, Energy Storage for Saft North America. “Smart grid technology is critically important in the modernization of electricity delivery, and this partnership enables Saft to provide cutting-edge solutions to a major program in New York City.”

“In projects of this magnitude, having the right partners is crucial. We are looking forward to working with Saft on the creation of the smart storage and generation unit network and continue our important work on the New York electric grid,” added Ron Prosser, chairman and CEO of GCN.

Installation for this project is scheduled to begin in March 2012.

Saft was in the news last year for being selected by Viridity Energy to provide energy storage for Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority. Saft was selected by Viridity Energy to design, manufacture and commission the battery, which will also be one of the first dual purpose trackside Energy Storage Systems (ESS) in the United States.