Getting effective and reliable energy storage options is crucial in the current dynamic energy environment. Commercial energy storage system offer a crucial means of storing energy generated during low-demand periods and releasing it when demand is high. It is essential to delve into their components to understand these systems better.
In this post, we will explore each component of commercial energy storage systems in detail while highlighting their functions and importance within the overall system architecture. We will also delve into different types of commercial energy storage technologies available today, along with their respective advantages and limitations.
Commercial battery storage systems are one type of energy storage, like big power banks (a container with battery packs) that have the ability and capacity to store and then release electricity from various sources. Commercial battery storage systems come in different sizes and shapes, depending on the application and customer needs.
These systems modular structure and storage capabilities range from 50 kWh to 1 MWh. They are, therefore, an excellent option for small- and medium-sized organizations looking for an energy storage system. Many business facilities, including schools, hospitals, petrol stations, shops, industries, and more, rely on them to aid their energy requirements.
Commercial energy storage systems support the grid by employing batteries to balance demand fluctuations, offer backup power during blackouts, and aid renewable energy sources like wind and solar. Adopting this system can help you save money by reducing electricity bills and creating new revenue opportunities.
● Battery system: The battery, consisting of separate cells that transform chemical energy into electrical energy, is undoubtedly the heart of commercial energy storage systems. The cells are arranged in modules, racks, and strings, as well as connected in series or parallel to an amount that matches the desired voltage and capacity. Lithium-ion has proven to be the best battery chemistry for commercial energy storage systems.
● Battery management system (BMS): The BMS is the main control point that ensures system safety by monitoring the battery system’s longevity, security, and efficiency. This makes the battery runs at its best regarding voltage, temperature, current, state of charge, and health. Also, it controls the cooling system and maintains the equilibrium of the cells.
● Inverter or power conversion system (PCS): This component is usually referred to as the “muscle” of the commercial energy storage system. This is because a battery supplies direct current (DC), but the grid or the load needs alternating current (AC) to function, so the Inverter helps with this transformation. Furthermore, it controls the output’s voltage, frequency, and power quality. How the energy storage system configures determines whether it uses an AC-coupled or DC-coupled inverter.
● Energy management system (EMS): The EMS is in charge of keeping track of and regulating the energy flow inside the energy storage system according to the user’s needs and preferences. It communicates with the grid, the load, and other power sources like solar and wind. It completes additional tasks like peak shaving, load shifting, frequency control, backup power, and energy arbitrage.
