TBEA unveils grid-forming converter for large-scale storage, renewables

<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Chinese power transformer manufacturer TBEA introduced a grid-forming string power conversion system (PCS) for utility-scale storage, renewable energy base projects, and weak-grid applications. The TE435/392K-HV-BL high-power converter focuses on improving power density and grid support. According to TBEA, its fully integrated liquid-cooling design increases volumetric power density by 78% and gravimetric power density by 32% <a class="more-link" href="https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/04/07/tbea-unveils-grid-forming-converter-for-large-scale-storage-renewables/">[&hellip;]</a></span></p><p>Chinese power transformer manufacturer <a href="https://www.pv-magazine.com/2025/04/22/tbea-unveils-400-kw-string-pcs-6-25-mwh-battery/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">TBEA</a> introduced a grid-forming string power conversion system (PCS) for utility-scale storage, renewable energy base projects, and weak-grid applications.</p>
<p>The TE435/392K-HV-BL high-power converter focuses on improving power density and grid support. According to TBEA, its fully integrated liquid-cooling design increases volumetric power density by 78% and gravimetric power density by 32% compared with the previous generation, helping reduce the footprint of energy storage plants by around 10%.</p>
<p>The PCS is designed to support a wide range of large-format battery cells, including capacities from 500 Ah to more than 1,000 Ah from multiple suppliers, as well as 314 Ah cluster-based configurations. This aligns with the ongoing industry shift toward larger battery cells in utility-scale storage, the company said.</p>
<p>Grid-forming capability is a key feature. Based on the company’s TE-PowerHUB 3.0 high-speed control platform, the system can switch between grid-following and grid-forming modes within milliseconds. It is designed to operate across a short-circuit ratio (SCR) range of 1 to 40, enabling deployment in both strong and weak grids.</p>
<p>According to TBEA, the PCS can provide inertia response, fast frequency regulation, reactive power and voltage support, and black start capability. The company positions the system not only as a bidirectional converter for battery charging and discharging, but also as a grid-support asset.</p>
<p>Key specifications include a rated power of 435 kW/392 kW, IP66+C5-M protection rating, an operating temperature range of -40 C to 70 C, and altitude capability of up to 5,000 meters without derating. Conversion efficiency is listed at 99%.</p>
<p>TBEA identified four primary application segments: large standalone and shared storage projects in China, storage paired with large renewable energy bases, overseas grid-forming markets with high renewable penetration, and projects in desert, high-altitude, and other harsh environments.</p>
<p>Unlike conventional PCS systems, which primarily inject current into the grid and rely on existing grid conditions, grid-forming PCS is designed to emulate the behavior of synchronous generators. This includes providing virtual inertia and damping, which can help stabilize grids with high shares of renewable generation. As a result, grid-forming systems are increasingly suited to weak-grid and high-renewables applications, where maintaining system stability is becoming a critical requirement.</p>