Energy can be stored in batteries for when it is needed. The battery energy storage system definition is an advanced technological solution that allows energy storage in multiple ways for later use. Given the possibility that an energy supply can experience fluctuations due to weather, blackouts, or for geopolitical reasons, battery systems are vital for utilities, businesses and homes to achieve a continual power flow. A battery energy storage system (BESS) is no longer an afterthought or an add-on, but rather an important pillar of any energy strategy.
What is solar energy storage?
A solar energy storage system is a technological solution in which batteries charge during the day when the sun is shining, and store and release power for consumption around the clock or on cloudy days. Battery energy storage is particularly effective when combined with solar energy, because solar energy storage mitigates the intermittent nature of renewable power and guarantees a steady supply of electricity. Modern batteries for a home or business solar energy system usually include a built-in inverter to change the DC current generated by solar panels into the AC current needed to power appliances or equipment. Solar battery storage works with an energy management system that manages the charge and discharge cycles based on real-time needs and availability.
What are the battery energy storage benefits
The advantages of battery storage systems are many. They make renewable energy more reliable and thus more viable. The supply of solar and wind power can fluctuate, so battery storage systems are crucial to “smoothing out” this flow to provide a continuous power supply of energy when it’s needed around the clock, no matter whether the wind is blowing or the sun is shining. Plus, they can protect any user from grid fluctuations that could compromise energy supply.
How does a battery storage system work?
The operating principle of a battery energy storage system (BESS) is straightforward. Batteries receive electricity from the power grid, straight from the power station, or from a renewable energy source like solar panels or other energy source, and subsequently store it as current to then release it when it is needed. When combined with software, a BESS becomes a platform that couples the energy storage capacity of batteries with the intelligence needed to deliver advanced management of energy consumption by harnessing AI, Machine Learning and data-driven solutions. This makes batteries a tool in the effort to offset climate change, because they enable a more flexible way of using energy that lets the user adapt to dips and peaks in demand and supply.
Overall, battery energy storage systems foster the deployment of renewable sources, thereby helping reduce carbon emissions and even deliver lower costs for businesses and households. Enel X works with businesses to ensure that all the energy needs are met, regardless of whether a facility already has a battery storage system up and running, needs to stall a new one, or must add more capacity. Our battery storage system is equipped with our DER.OS optimization software, which is designed to work with all kinds of distributed energy resources and can easily be integrated into existing systems, such as solar photovoltaic systems.
