Description

Battery Energy Storage Systems: GB-SL

What is battery energy storage

A battery energy storage system (BESS) is a technological solution that enables users to store energy from different sources like solar power, electric grid, and wind for later use. The rechargeable batteries store the energy, which can be discharged to homes, industrial facilities, electric vehicles, and other applications when required.

The battery storage systems include lithium-ion, lead acid batteries, Nickel-Cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries, and Sodium-Sulfur (Na-S) batteries.

Also, there are two major meter systems for battery energy storage systems. That is, front-of-the-meter (FTM) and behind-the-meter (BTM). BTM systems are smaller and are usually set up in a user’s household to enhance the stability of the energy supply. Also, if the local regulatory framework permits, it can supply power back to the electric grid, becoming an extra revenue stream. On the other hand, FTM systems are installed directly to the power grid and belong to a utility.

The main parts of a battery energy storage system

The components of a battery energy storage system include:

A Battery system

Made up of individual battery cells organized in modules to form battery packs. These cells convert the stored chemical energy into electrical energy.

Battery Management System (BMS)

Protects the battery systems by monitoring the condition of battery cells, measuring parameters like State of Charge (SOC) and State of Health (SOH). It also protects batteries from hazards such as fires.

A Power Conversion System (PCS)

Transforms the Direct Current generated by batteries to Alternating Current (AC) discharged to facilities. In addition, the systems have bi-directional inverters that enable charge and discharge cycles.

An Energy Management System (EMS)

Control the flow of energy within a battery storage system. EMS ensures efficient energy production by coordinating the work of other BESS components like BMS and PCS.

Benefits of using battery energy storage systems

Below are some advantages of using battery energy storage systems:

They provide backup power

People may experience fluctuations in energy supply due to weather, damage to power generation facilities causing blackouts, and geopolitical reasons. Therefore, a battery storage system is vital for households and businesses to achieve consistent power flow.

They improve grid stability

Battery energy storage systems also serve as frequency regulators maintaining grid stability. Traditionally, grid operators used to adjust the output of power plants to balance consumption and generation. Luckily, today, you can partner with reputable battery storage system providers like Deye for a more efficient solution. With our systems, you can manage power supply and demand by generating and storing energy during off-peak periods and releasing it during demand peaks. This technique is referred to as energy arbitrage.

They facilitate better utilization of renewable energy

Batteries are used to store excess energy. Therefore, you can tap your batteries instead during cloudy or rainy days when your solar system doesn’t generate much power.

They foster sustainability

The use of battery storage systems ensures any energy produced from various sources doesn’t go to waste. This reduces greenhouse gas emissions hence sustainable living.

They lower operational costs

Households and businesses can warehouse low-cost or even free energy to use during the peak season when there’s a high cost of electricity.

How battery energy storage systems work

The process is straightforward. The rechargeable batteries receive energy from the electric grid either from the power station or renewable sources like solar panels. It is then stored as current and can be released from the battery storage system during peak periods when the demand is high. This reduces energy costs and keeps power flowing.

Modern battery energy storage systems include computerized control systems to coordinate energy production. They are used to determine whether it’s effective to keep the stored energy to provide reserves or discharge it to the grid. Also, BESS systems can integrate with software and leverage AI, Machine Learning, and data-driven tools to facilitate advanced management of energy consumption.

Battery energy storage applications

There are various applications for battery energy storage systems. The uses vary depending on whether they are used at home or for commercial purposes. Below are some applications for industrial or commercial users:

Load shifting

Businesses can shift energy usage by discharging the batteries when electricity becomes more expensive. They can charge them using solar panels when electricity is the cheapest. This is extremely useful for business establishments, for instance, Rural Electric Cooperatives, that may not provide annualized metering.

Peak shaving

Peak shaving is the capability to manage energy demand to prevent a sudden spike in energy consumption over the short term. Battery energy systems can ensure no power above a predetermined limit is drawn from electrical grids in peak periods. Therefore, businesses can reduce operational costs and increase revenue streams by eliminating demand charges.

Micro-grids

A battery is an essential component of microgrids. Notably, economically viable battery energy storage solutions have enabled commercial and industrial facilities such as power plant operators to build microgrids to improve electric reliability. Microgrids can disconnect from the main electricity grid and keep electricity flowing in case of an outage.

Renewable integration

Batteries can integrate with renewable energy sources like solar to ensure a smooth flow of power day vs. night and summer vs. winter.

Emergency backup

Businesses can utilize battery energy in case of power interruptions and ensure normal operations run smoothly.

Grid services

Battery energy storage solutions can be used for grid services such as voltage control and frequency regulation.

On the other hand, residential users can use it for:

Solar self-consumption

Energy storage systems enable homeowners to store sufficient energy generated by solar panels during the daytime and use it at night. This is not only cost-effective but also sustainable.

Emergency power backup

Households can keep their power on by tapping the batteries during a power outage. Battery technologies are a better alternative to generators, known to be a major contributor to gas emissions like carbon monoxide.

Off-grid

Modern battery energy storage systems are essential for solar-powered off-grid homes completely detached from the electrical utility.