Variable renewable energy sources like wind and solar need energy storage to help balance production and demand. Battery-based systems are fast emerging as an ideal solution, but with big differences between batteries; how can manufacturers provide performance assurance and how do project developers choose the right storage solution?
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Variable renewable energy sources like wind and solar need energy storage to help balance production and demand. Battery-based systems are fast emerging as an ideal solution, but with big differences between batteries; how do project developers choose the right one? Manufacturer warranties give an indication of lifetime and performance. However, given the scale of their investment, project stakeholders need more detailed, independently validated performance data to make an informed choice.
In DNV’s Energy Transition Outlook, we predict that annual energy storage usage could reach 50 terawatt-hours by . This global energy storage fleet will be used primarily for renewables integration and grid management, in a world where renewables will represent 80 percent of our electricity generation.
Large scale adoption of battery chemistries in the automotive sector mean battery energy storage provides a cost effective and readily available solution for managing variable renewables. As a result, manufacturers are developing a range of battery storage solutions to address this fast-growing market. But this presents a challenge for project developers and investors, who need to have confidence that the storage solution they choose will meet their specific needs.
In particular, they need to be sure their chosen system will perform reliably and have a predictable life expectancy. As the economic viability of entire projects is based on these factors, buyers want more reassurance than just the word of the manufacturer. They want independent validation of battery performance. And as performance can differ significantly for different battery configurations, detailed performance data is crucial to the decision-making process.
Why does battery performance vary so much?
Even though they are based on the same technology, similar lithium-ion batteries can still perform very differently. This is partly due to different manufacturing processes but is mostly because they each have their own unique formulation of chemistry additives. Also, to meet specific market demands, manufacturers engineer their batteries to have particular characteristics, perhaps focusing on high temperature resistance or a better cell charge rate (C-rate), for example. This is evidenced by the rich field of patents filed in Li-ion chemistries since the early ’s.
Each battery system also performs best in a particular state of charge (SOC) range or window. Keeping the battery within this window can extend its operating life. But, if the average SOC condition is not within this window, this could adversely affect the reliability of the battery. For instance, a battery that degrades at a faster rate at high SOC would not be a good choice for an infrequent peak-shaving function, where it would typically be sitting at high states of charge. A battery that performs well at high SOC may be a better fit for this particular application.
Batteries can also be designed for specific environments where there could be high or low ambient temperatures. As cell temperatures is critical to a battery’s lifetime, inadequate or too much cooling will shorten its life. In short, no two batteries are exactly alike, even if they are generically described as the same chemistry.
Performance data accelerates the decision-making process
Clearly, having access to detailed performance data on different batteries’ capabilities would be a significant asset to project developers and their lenders. Not only is this information invaluable in choosing the best-fit solution, it can also help mitigate the high financial risk by verifying manufacturers’ warranties and guarantees.
Built on test data compiled over several years, DNV’s Battery Performance Scorecard provides a level playing field to show stakeholders how batteries from different manufacturers compare across a range of key performance indicators including SOC conditions, C-rate (a measurement of power) and temperature. This enables project developers to compare the performance characteristics of different batteries and choose the best match for their specific system design.
Closing more deals
Deployments in the solar industry accelerated when a contractual mechanism was standardized (the power purchase agreement, or PPA) and the data to support warranties became widely distributed and accepted. The financial community expects the same of energy storage.
DNV saw the gap in lifetime and degradation data for batteries, and developed the Battery Performance Scorecard to provide more confident independent engineering reports on energy storage projects, thereby enabling their financing. The Scorecard helps project developers choose the best solution for their systems and provides independent validation of the system performance and manufacturer warranties. This makes the decision-making process easier and quicker.
Battery manufacturers can also benefit from having their products in the Scorecard. It provides developers with assurance on the performance of their systems. It can even bring them new business by providing instant validation of their solutions against other manufacturers products. Since the Battery Performance Scorecard was published, independent engineering reviews can be performed faster, and DNV has received many requests from developers for more information about the storage systems covered in the Scorecard. In the end, more closed deals will lead to more growth in the renewables and energy storage markets.
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are a component of the global transition towards a sustainable energy future. Renewable energy sources become increasingly prevalent. The need for efficient and reliable energy storage solutions has never been more critical. This short guide will explore the details of battery energy storage system design, covering aspects from the fundamental components to advanced considerations for optimal performance and integration with renewable energy sources. Follow us in the journey to BESS!
A battery energy storage system is a complex arrangement of components designed to store electrical energy in chemical form and convert it back to electricity when needed. The battery pack design must be oriented to performance and efficiency, because storage systems are vital in managing the intermittent nature of renewable energy generation, providing grid support to ensure a stable power supply.
The heart of any BESS, battery modules store electrical energy in chemical form. The choice of battery technology is crucial and depends on factors such as energy density, power density, cycle life, and cost.
Power Conversion System (PCS)
This component converts the direct current (DC) from the batteries to alternating current (AC) for grid connection or use in electrical systems, and vice versa for charging.
The EMS oversees the operation of the entire BESS, optimizing energy flow, monitoring performance, and ensuring safe operation.
Working closely with the EMS, the BMS monitors and controls individual battery cells or battery modules, ensuring optimal operating temperatures and preventing overcharging or deep discharging.
This system maintains the batteries within their optimal operating temperature range, crucial for performance and longevity.
Including fire suppression systems and various protection devices, these components ensure the safe operation of the BESS.
For grid-tied systems, this includes transformers and switchgear necessary for connecting to the power grid.
Choosing the right battery technology is fundamental to the success of a BESS. Several options are available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses:
Lithium-ion batteries, particularly lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) variants, have become the go-to choice for many BESS applications due to their high energy density, excellent cycle life, and improving cost-effectiveness. They offer a good balance of power and energy, making them suitable for both short-duration, high-power applications and longer-duration energy storage.
While less energy-dense than lithium-ion, lead-acid batteries remain a cost-effective option for certain applications, especially where space is not a constraint and lower cycle life is acceptable. They are often used in backup power systems and off-grid applications.
Flow batteries, which store energy in liquid electrolytes, offer the advantage of decoupled power and energy ratings. This makes them particularly suitable for long-duration storage applications. However, they typically have lower round-trip efficiency compared to lithium-ion batteries.
Research is ongoing into various other battery technologies, including sodium-ion, solid-state, and metal-air batteries. While not yet widely commercialized, these technologies may offer significant advantages in the future.
Designing a BESS involves careful consideration of various factors to ensure it meets the specific needs of the application while operating safely and efficiently. The first step in BESS design is to clearly define the system requirements:
1. Energy Storage Capacity: How much battery energy needs to be stored?
2. Power Rating: What is the maximum power output required?
3. Discharge Duration: How long does the system need to provide power?
4. Cycle Life: How many charge-discharge cycles is the system expected to undergo?
5. Response Time: How quickly does the system need to respond to demand?
6. Round-Trip Efficiency: What level of efficiency is required?
These requirements will inform the choice of battery technology and the overall system design.
Once the requirements are established, the battery system can be sized. This involves determining the number of battery modules needed to meet the battery energy storage capacity and power rating requirements. The power-to-energy ratio is a crucial consideration here, as it affects the choice between high-power and high-energy battery configurations.
The PCS must be sized to handle the maximum power output of the battery system. It should also be designed for high efficiency to minimize losses during energy conversion. Considerations include:
- AC/DC conversion efficiency
- Harmonic distortion
- Reactive power capability
- Fault ride-through capability
The EMS is the brain of the battery storage system, responsible for optimizing its operation. Key functions include:
- Monitoring and controlling energy flow
- Implementing charge/discharge strategies
- Interfacing with external systems (e.g., grid operators, renewable energy sources)
- Forecasting energy production and demand
- Implementing peak shaving and other grid support functions
The battery management system ensures the safe and optimal operation of the battery modules. It should be designed to:
- Monitor individual cell voltages and temperatures
- Balance cell charge levels
- Protect against overcharging and deep discharging
- Estimate state of charge and state of health
- Communicate with the EMS
Maintaining optimal operating temperatures is crucial for battery performance and longevity. The thermal management system should be designed to optimize heat transfer:
- Keep batteries within their optimal temperature range
- Remove heat generated during charging and discharging
- Maintain temperature uniformity across battery modules
- Operate efficiently to minimize energy consumption
Fortunatelly heat exchanger design can be assisted both by classic simulation and AI technologies for prediction of physical quantities of interest such as temperature distribution in the battery pack.
Safety is paramount in battery storage system design. Key safety systems include:
- Fire detection and suppression systems
- Ventilation systems to prevent buildup of potentially hazardous gases
- Electrical isolation and protection devices
- Emergency shutdown systems
For grid-tied systems, proper grid connection design is crucial. This includes:
- Transformer sizing and selection
- Switchgear design
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- Grid synchronization systems
- Compliance with grid codes and standards
One of the primary applications of the battery energy storage system is integration with renewable energies such as solar power and wind energy. This integration helps manage the intermittent nature of renewable energy generation, storing excess energy during periods of high production and providing power during low production periods.
When integrating a battery energy storage system with solar power systems:
- Size the battery system to store excess energy generated during peak sunlight hours
- Design the EMS to optimize self-consumption of solar energy
- Consider DC-coupled systems for higher overall efficiency
For wind energy integration:
- battery energy storage system design should to handle the variable and often unpredictable nature of wind power
- Size the system to store energy during high wind periods for use during low wind periods
- Implement advanced forecasting in the EMS to predict wind power generation
BESS can provide valuable services to the power grid, including:
Effective monitoring and control are essential for the reliable operation of a BESS.
Key aspects include:
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems provide overall monitoring and control of the BESS, including:
- Real-time monitoring of system performance
- Remote control capabilities
- Data logging and reporting
- Alarm management
Implementing predictive maintenance strategies can help prevent failures and optimize system performance. This involves:
- Continuous monitoring of key parameters
- Use of machine learning algorithms to predict potential issues
- Scheduling maintenance based on actual system condition rather than fixed intervals
The economic viability of a BESS project depends on various factors.
The initial investment in a BESS can be significant.
Key cost components include:
- Battery modules
- Power conversion system
- Balance of system components (e.g., containment, wiring, safety systems)
- Installation and commissioning
Ongoing costs to consider include:
- Maintenance and replacement costs
- Energy losses due to round-trip efficiency
- Auxiliary power consumption (e.g., for thermal management)
Potential revenue streams for BESS projects include:
- Energy arbitrage in energy markets
- Provision of ancillary services to the grid
- Demand charge reduction for commercial and industrial customers
- Increased self-consumption of renewable energy
A comprehensive lifecycle cost analysis should be performed, considering:
- Initial capital costs
- Operating and maintenance costs
- Replacement costs (e.g., battery replacement)
- Expected revenue over the project lifetime
- Disposal and recycling costs at end-of-life
BESS projects must comply with various regulations and environmental considerations:
Compliance with relevant grid codes and standards is crucial for grid-connected systems. These may include:
- IEEE for interconnection of distributed energy resources
- IEC for safety requirements for large-format Li-ion batteries
- UL for safety standards for energy storage systems
Consider the environmental impact of the BESS, including:
- Lifecycle carbon footprint
- Recycling and disposal of batteries at end-of-life
- Potential for hazardous material leakage
Obtain necessary permits and comply with local zoning regulations, which may include:
- Building permits
- Electrical permits
- Fire safety approvals
- Environmental impact assessments
As technology advances, several trends are shaping the future of BESS design. Ongoing research into new battery chemistries and designs promises to deliver higher energy densities, longer cycle lives, and improved safety.
The increasing adoption of electric vehicles presents opportunities for vehicle-to-grid (V2G) integration, where EV batteries can be used for grid support.
AI and ML algorithms are being increasingly used to optimize BESS operation, predict maintenance needs, and enhance overall system performance. Modular BESS designs allow for easier scaling and replacement of components, improving flexibility and reducing lifecycle costs.
Designing a Battery Energy Storage System is a complex task involving factors ranging from the choice of battery technology to the integration with renewable energy sources and the power grid.
By following the guidelines outlined in this article and staying abreast of technological advancements, engineers and project developers can create BESS that help our transition to a clean energy ecosystem.
The future of energy is undoubtedly intertwined with the development of advanced battery energy storage systems!
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