Guide to Battery Energy Storage Systems

13 May.,2024

 

Guide to Battery Energy Storage Systems

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What is a Battery Energy Storage System?

Put simply, it is exactly as the name suggests, it is a Battery System which stores energy for various technical and commercial purposes.  In the case of Utility Scale batteries, they can be charged by a multitude of renewable sources or indeed by the grid.  The level to which they are charged or discharged depends primarily on the function the owner wants them to perform.  

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are becoming increasingly important for maintaining power stability, sustainability and cost-effectiveness as well as generating significant commercial returns for the asset owners.

Most modern Battery Energy Storage Systems can perform several grid functions, using the same battery asset at different times or the day or night.  For example, peak shaving, peak shifting, arbitrage and frequency regulation to name a few of the common ones, can all be performed by the same battery system.  The battery itself is one portion of the whole, but other equipment and intelligence must be added before it becomes a useful grid asset.  Associated equipment such as power conversion hardware, control logic and monitoring systems, all combine to enable the battery to act as an energy system and either accept or deliver energy when required by the end users.

One of the main benefits of a modern BESS is that it enables the addition of large amounts of renewable energy sources to be integrated into the existing power grid.  We all know the challenges presented by the intermittency of Solar and Wind power, but as <reported in our previous article> these are overcome or largely mitigated by adding utility scale batteries or other storage formats into the grid.  The excess energy produced during windy and sunny periods is stored and is then released during periods of high demand from the grid.  These functions help to smooth out demand fluctuations and improve the overall reliability of the power network.  Having a storage element integrated into the power grid also enables fast response times for charge and discharge to enable the frequency of the grid to be regulated which enhances overall grid stability.

▶  Balancing supply and demand – storing excess energy for release on demand.
▶  Integrating renewable energy sources – mitigates intermittency.
▶  Improving power grid stability – multiple grid functions serviced.
▶  Reducing greenhouse gas emissions – help fight climate change.
▶  Improving energy security – reduced dependency on fossil fuels.
▶  Cost effective – reducing costs helping drive uptake.

Types of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)

Battery Energy Storage Systems vary in size and type, ranging from small residential systems to large utility scale systems.  There are systems presented in small cabinets for indoor residential use, all the way up to massive grid sites comprised of hundreds of 40 foot containers.  The All-New Elementa from Trina Storage is a modular, flexible and scalable system for utility applications and microgrids.

In commercial and industrial systems, BESS capacity usually range from several megawatt-hours (MWh) field, whilst utility scale systems can range from tens of MWh to hundreds of MWh or even more. These utility scale systems are typically used to support the stability of the power grid, by providing energy during peak demand periods and to store energy from renewable sources to be used later.

The battery chemistry deployed depends largely on the application to be serviced.  Here we have included some of the battery chemistries and storage solutions they provide.

Lithium-ion batteries

These are the most widely used types of batteries in modern battery energy storage systems.  They have a high energy density, long life, and low self-discharge rate, making them an attractive option for grid-scale energy storage. Lithium-ion phosphate (LFP) batteries are playing an essential role in the transition to renewable energies.

Lead-acid batteries

These batteries have been used for many years in battery systems.  They are relatively inexpensive compared to many other options. However, they have a relatively low energy density and shorter life compared to lithium-ion batteries.

Flow batteries

These batteries store energy in a liquid electrolyte, rather than in a solid state, and can be scaled up to large capacities.  They have a relatively long life and can be recharged and discharged many times, but they are more expensive than lithium-ion batteries.

Sodium-sulphur batteries

These batteries are used for high-temperature applications and have a relatively long life and high energy density. They are more expensive than lithium-ion batteries and have seen lower deployment rates.

Advanced chemistry batteries

This category includes batteries that use new and emerging technologies such as solid-state batteries, lithium-sulphur batteries, and lithium-air batteries.  They are still under development and although they great potential, their commercialization is not widespread as yet.

The current state of battery storage installations

According to a report by Wood Mackenzie (2022), Europe's grid-scale energy storage capacity will expand 20-fold by 2031. The European Commission set out a 'RePowerEU' plan which proposed a doubling of the share of variable renewables in power generation, passing 60% by 2030. Energy storage will play a crucial role in that rapid evolution, providing vital system flexibility to support power grid networks.

In 2022 alone, European grid-scale energy storage demand saw a tremendous 97% year-on-year growth, deploying 2.8GW/3.3GWh. This reflects energy storage's emergence as a mainstream power technology. Over the next decade, the top 10 markets in Europe will add 73 GWh of energy storage, amounting to 90% of new deployments.

Market share across Europe by key countries

The UK will retain its crown as the region's leading grid-scale storage market through to 2031, adding 1.5GW/1.8GWh in 2022 alone. The UK holds the largest storage project pipeline in Europe, with 25 projects above 100 MW.

In conclusion, it is clear from recent developments and future growth forecasts that battery energy storage will remain as an important component in the grid network jigsaw puzzle but also it's important to note that battery storage is just one of many mechanisms being deployed in our fightback against climate change. At Trina Storage, we're providing a flexible energy storage solution for utility-scale and commercial applications with vertical integration with renewable energy power.

The Future of Energy Storage: A Guide to Battery Solutions

Battery Energy Storage Systems are changing the way we store energy. These commercial batteries are part of the solution to the current and future energy issues. But what is it? How does it work? Is it for me?

The energy market is undergoing a significant transition, marked by a strong shift to renewable energy.

This is driven by four key trends:

  • Decarbonisation - That is the reduction or elimination of carbon dioxide emissions from the energy production process.
  • Decentralisation - There is a move to local power generation rather than larger more centralised power generation.
  • Digitalisation - Most of our power networks were built before the digital age. AI is particularly impacting our energy generation and usage. 
  • Demographic change - Changes in population size and structure caused by changes in birth rates, death rates, and by migration.

There is a need to navigate this changing landscape as businesses need reliable, cost effective, energy solutions that are going to provide stability into the future.

Renewable energy generation is part of the solution, but is limited by fluctuating weather conditions. 

A battery energy storage solution is another part of the solution. One that can help provide further cost reduction, reliability, security and energy independence.

Are you interested in learning more about five power energy? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

What is a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)?

A Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) refers to a system that stores electrical energy in batteries for later use. These can either be portable or more permanently built on site.

Similar to how batteries work for torches, remotes or toys, the batteries are charged from an external source, and then discharged as we need to use them. A BESS is a battery with greater complexity and far greater functionality than a AA battery.

A Battery Energy Storage System, sometimes referred to as a smart battery, can be connected to the grid, as well as renewable energy sources, and can act as an effective buffer between them. 

See how it looks up close:

Why would I even consider a Battery?

There are several advantages of having a BESS as part of your energy solution, including:

  1. Improved Energy Efficiency
    A BESS allows you to store excess energy generated by renewable sources, such as solar panels, for use during periods of high demand or when the renewable source is not producing energy. This can help to reduce your reliance on grid-generated power and give more energy security.
  2. Reduce Energy Costs
    BESS systems can help businesses reduce their energy costs by storing energy during off-peak periods when electricity rates are lower and using the stored energy during peak periods when electricity rates are higher. This allows businesses to take advantage of time-of-use pricing and avoid peak demand charges. These peak demand charges are very costly, so levelling out the demand curve can reduce your energy costs.
  3. Grid Stability
    A battery system can provide grid-stabilising services to the power grid, such as frequency regulation and voltage control, which helps to ensure the stability and reliability of the power grid. A more stable grid means less interruptions to your power.
  4. Backup Power
    A BESS can provide backup power in the event of a power outage, ensuring that essential equipment and appliances continue to function. Enabling you to continue business or have a controlled shutdown in this unfortunate situation.
  5. Increased Sustainability
    By storing excess energy generated from renewable sources, a BESS can help to increase the use of clean, sustainable energy sources and reduce their carbon footprint. This can help businesses meet sustainability goals and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

How does a BESS typically work?

Battery Energy Storage Systems can be built on site, or provided in a portable solution. The portable version is referred to as a Containerised Battery Energy Storage Systems. (CBESS)

These are a type of BESS where the batteries, inverters, and other components are housed in a shipping container.

But they work in a similar way.

As an example of what makes up one of these batteries, we can look at the Powertech Power cube we have in stock right now. This 955kWh battery is made up of:

  • Lithium-Ion Batteries
  • BMS (Battery Management System)
  • 955kWh Total Storage Capacity 
  • Master BMS
  • Battery PCS 250kVA AC Coupled
  • Battery EMS (Energy Management System)
  • Climate Management
  • Fire Suppression
  • Ruggedised Container

In this video we break down what is inside:

This type of BESS has some key advantages over a built in system such as:

  • Portability
    These can be easily transported from one location to another, making it suitable for temporary or mobile energy storage applications.
  • Easy Installation
    They are pre-assembled in the factory, so they can be quickly deployed at the site without the need for extensive site preparation.
  • Modularity
    A Containerized Battery Storage System can be scaled up or down by adding or removing containers, depending on the energy storage requirements.
  • Standardisation
    They are built to a standard size and configuration, which makes them easy to transport and deploy, and simplifies maintenance and replacement.
  • Cost-effectiveness
    A CBESS can be manufactured in a controlled environment, which reduces costs compared to building a BESS from scratch on site.

What can it power?

Let’s get some context!

What do all these numbers mean?

For comparison here are a few batteries we use everyday.

  • AA Batteries - 5 watt-hour
  • Phone battery - 20 watt-hour
  • Laptop battery - 50 watt-hour
  • Standard 12 volt car battery - 500 watt-hour
  • Home solar storage battery - 10 kWh
  • Electric cars - start from 20 kWh up to 100 kWh

A 1MWh battery then is the equivalent of 200,000 AA Batteries, and it could power:

  • 50,000 new iPhones/Androids
  • 70 24-kilowatt Nissan Leafs (charge from 20% to 80%)
  • 55 average Australian four-person family homes.

Is battery storage worth it?

It is true that while a battery storage system is not for everyone, there are however a lot of applications where it is ideal. Not only can it provide cost savings, but it can also give confidence and improved stability.

Here are a few:

  • Solar farms & ground mount installations (100kWh – 1MWh)
    Time shift your solar power feed to the grid. This can balance out your energy feed in for a more stable grid, and increased returns.
  • Commercial solar systems without existing storage
    Solar can be part of the solution, but without battery storage you’re losing some of the benefits. Instead of losing the power you generate, store it for later use.
  • Remote operations (e.g. microgrids, mining & agriculture)
    Operations where there is no access to the grid. Control your own energy production for your needs.
  • Companies with high energy demand (e.g. cold storage facilities)
    Power is expensive, especially with high energy demand. Battery solutions can even out the demand curve, resulting in energy savings.
  • Off-grid communities (remote towns, tiny homes, and campsites)
    A Battery Energy storage system is perfect when connected to renewable energy sources. It can be used to share and control energy use within small communities.
  • Operations running on diesel generators
    Sometimes used as a backup power source or in remote locations. Switching from noisy and expensive diesel generators to a solar and battery solution can provide the supply power needs but with reduced costs and emissions.

Whether a BESS can help you will depend on your specific energy needs and requirements. If you have renewable energy sources and want to reduce your reliance on grid-generated power or ensure backup power during an outage, a BESS may be a good investment for you.

At Powertech Energy, we are your local energy partner. We guide you through the complex energy landscape, finding solutions that work well for your particular situation. Our brilliant engineers and technicians can design, deploy and service a solution ideal for your needs.

The best way to discover if this is right for you is to talk to our team and let them assess your individual needs.

If you're interested in a battery or looking for an experienced consultant to help you rethink your energy plan, reach out to our team today or fill out this form and our team will get in touch with you.

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