Can battery energy storage systems support the grid?

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) can be applied to support the grid and help solve these issues created by increased penetration of renewable energy. In the public eye, integrating renewable energy onto the utility grid may seem like an easy decision to make.

Why do we need energy storage?

In simple terms, it can allow the capture of generated energy when it is supplemental to needs, so that it can be stored and released at times when it is needed, for example, at times of peak demand. It provides the ability to instantaneously balance power supply and demand.

What is energy storage?

One poten-tial solution is what is commonly referred to as the “holy grail” of the industry -- energy storage. The utility industry does not have a common warehouse or inventory of the product they produce. When a customer turns on a light switch or starts a large industrial motor, the power is consumed immediately from on-line generation.

What is battery energy storage system (BESS)?

Two of the most prominent types of renewable energy are solar (PV) and wind; however, because the sun disappears behind clouds and the wind fluctuates, renewable power is vari-able. Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) can be applied to support the grid and help solve these issues created by increased penetration of renewable energy.

What is battery energy storage?

Energy storage, and specifi cally battery energy storage, is an economical and expeditious way utilities can overcome these obstacles. Battery energy storage solutions (BESS) store energy from the grid, and inject the energy back into the grid when needed.

Why do utilities need a new system?

In today’s power systems, growing demand, aging infrastructure and system constraints, as well as the increasing renewable energy portfolio, have amplified the need for utilities to find new ways to manage their system and improve reliability.