Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)

Battery Storage EMS

In order to monitor battery readings, the SCADA system generally establishes direct communication with the BMS. Additionally, there may be a need or advantage for the SCADA system to communicate with DC-DC converters, inverters, and auxiliary meters in order to effectively manage the BMS.

The main clientele for FTM installations consists of utilities, grid operators, and renewable developers who seek to address the sporadic nature of renewables, offer grid stability services, or avoid expensive investments in their grid. Typically, the BESS providers in this sector are either vertically integrated battery manufacturers or prominent system integrators. They will set themselves apart based on factors such as price and scope, dependability, their history of successfully managing projects, and their aptitude for creating energy management systems and software solutions for grid optimization and trading.

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C&I is divided into four subsegments, with the initial one being electric vehicle charging infrastructure (EVCI). According to the McKinsey Center for Future Mobility, electric vehicles (EVs) are projected to experience a significant increase in market share, rising from approximately 23 percent of global vehicle sales in 2025 to 45 percent by 2030. This rapid growth will necessitate the widespread expansion of standard charging stations and superchargers, thereby exerting strain on existing grid infrastructure and requiring expensive and time-consuming upgrades. In order to prevent this situation, charging station companies and owners might choose to install a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) on their premises. Collaborations have already been established between BESS providers and electric vehicle manufacturers to construct additional Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure (EVCI), even in secluded areas.

Recognize a neglected requirement within the value chain. In an emerging industry like this, it is beneficial for companies to consider additional products and services they could expand into, either through internal growth or mergers and acquisitions. As an example, is there any hindrance preventing a system integrator from conducting in-house battery packaging? Or collaborating with a battery manufacturer to jointly develop a new cell chemistry? Moreover, is there any limitation preventing a battery manufacturer from incorporating system integration or service capabilities to attract a particular BESS sector, like utilities?

The Chief Executive Officer of FlexGen, a provider specialized in controlling energy storage software solutions, explains the definition and necessity of upgrading or retrofitting an energy management system (EMS) in operational battery energy storage system (BESS) projects.

Energy Management System

In the subsequent section of the C&I sector, there exists critical infrastructure comprising telecommunication towers, data centers, and hospitals. Within this specific subset, temporary backup power is typically facilitated by lead-acid batteries through an uninterruptible power supply during instances of outages until the resumption of regular power or activation of diesel generators. Alongside the substitution of lead-acid batteries, lithium-ion BESS products offer a potential solution to reduce dependence on diesel generators, which are less eco-friendly. These products can be seamlessly integrated with sustainable energy sources like rooftop solar. Moreover, in specific instances, surplus energy stored in a battery could enable organizations to generate income through grid services. A number of telecommunications companies and proprietors of data centers are currently transitioning to BESS (Battery Energy Storage Systems) for their uninterrupted power supply needs, recognizing the added advantages that BESS offers.

Anticipated advancements in utility-scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), which presently represent the majority of new capacity each year, are projected to witness a rapid growth rate of approximately 29 percent annually until the end of this decade. This trajectory positions utility-scale BESS as the fastest-growing segment among the three. Projections indicate that by 2030, annual utility-scale BESS installations could range from 450 to 620 gigawatt-hours (GWh), potentially securing up to a 90 percent market share of the total industry during that period (Exhibit 2).

To obtain a summary of the functioning of BMS and EMS, please refer to our publication on BESS and grid assistance. In this section, we will delve into the integration of BESS with SCADA.

Energy Management System

Energy Storage Software

From a technological standpoint, the primary factors that customers prioritize when it comes to batteries are cycle life and cost-effectiveness. Presently, lithium-ion batteries are prevailing because they fulfill customer requirements. In the past, the dominant choice for battery chemistry was a nickel manganese cobalt cathode. However, lithium iron phosphate (LFP) has emerged as a more cost-effective alternative, surpassing it in popularity. (Customers of lithium iron phosphate are willing to acknowledge that LFP may have certain limitations compared to nickel batteries, particularly in terms of energy density.) Nevertheless, the scarcity of lithium has led to the exploration of various intriguing and promising battery technologies, with a particular focus on cell-based options like sodium-ion (Na-ion), sodium-sulfur (Na-S), metal-air, and flow batteries.

The last section of the C&I subsegment encompasses challenging settings, including mining, construction, oil and gas exploration, as well as outdoor festivals. The driving force behind its expansion will be customers shifting from diesel or gas generators towards eco-friendly options like BESS and hybrid generators in order to mitigate emissions. One of the primary catalysts for the increasing adoption in this sector is the implementation of forthcoming regulations, such as the European Commission's sustainability-driven Big Buyers initiative and Oslo's objective to achieve net zero on construction sites by 2025. A significant number of companies transitioning to more environmentally friendly practices will initially opt for hybrid genset solutions as an intermediate step before fully transitioning to Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).

In response to economic and operational challenges, there is a prevailing tendency within the industry to enhance or modify the EMS. Making the decision to retrofit the EMS carries significant weight, hence it is vital to meticulously plan the sequence of retrofitting actions. Approximately 20% of the deal flow that FlexGen handles consists of retrofits.

1Battery Storage Software

The BMS encompasses the HMI, which denotes the operational state of the BMS (such as charging, discharging, or idle), desired levels of real and reactive power, limits for state of charge (SOC), alarm information, and input from control parameters.

The market for BESS (Battery Energy Storage Systems) is currently experiencing a rapid phase of growth and development. Companies that fail to take action at this pivotal moment risk losing out on significant opportunities. Success in this market will be determined by four essential factors that companies must demonstrate. As the energy transition gains momentum, these victors will generate value in an emerging market.

Critical readings that are transmitted from the batteries/stacks comprise state of charge (SOC), electrical current, voltage, temperature, as well as the quantity of interconnected stacks and alarm indicators. In the case of battery issues such as excessive heat or failure to charge adequately, the SCADA system has the capability to notify plant operators through an alarm displayed on the human-machine interface (HMI).

1Battery Storage Software
Battery Storage Energy Management
Battery Storage Energy Management

Exploring the realm of software is of utmost importance, particularly within the context of storage systems. It is anticipated that the value of these systems will shift from mere hardware to encompass the software that governs and enhances the overall functionality, presenting an opportunity to attract a wider customer base and achieve greater profitability. It is important for BESS players to cultivate these abilities at an early stage.

The battery management system (BMS) is frequently mistaken for the EMS. The BMS is a straightforward system that serves two purposes: 1) enabling or disabling battery operation and 2) ensuring the safety of the batteries. When initiating a BESS, the EMS will instruct the BMS to activate the batteries (establish the DC bus). The BMS will execute this command only if it detects a safe condition. During operation, if the BMS detects parameters that are exceeding their acceptable range, it will prompt the EMS to decrease power output (in cases where parameters breach fault thresholds, the BMS will activate the opening of rack contactors).

The advancements in technology are driving the growth of the market for battery energy storage systems (BESS). Battery storage plays a crucial role in supporting the generation of renewable energy, facilitating alternative sources to consistently contribute to global energy requirements despite the inherently unpredictable nature of these sources. As battery prices decrease, the versatility offered by BESS (Battery Energy Storage System) will become crucial in various areas such as peak load management, optimizing self-consumption, and providing backup power during power disruptions. These applications are progressively gaining profitability.

Battery Storage Integration

Promote the development of robustness within supply chains. Numerous essential components of BESS (from battery cells to semiconductors in inverters and control systems) depend on intricate supply chains that are vulnerable to disruptions arising from various factors such as scarcities of raw materials and modifications in regulations. When establishing a supply chain strategy, it is important to take into account various factors such as strategic partnerships, multi-sourcing, and local sourcing. Additionally, planning for potential technological changes should not be overlooked. In addition to addressing BESS components, those operating in the industry also face challenges when it comes to engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) capability and capacity, especially for front-of-the-meter applications. To achieve smooth execution of BESS projects, it is imperative to establish strategic collaborations with prominent EPC companies that have the capacity for large-scale BESS installations.

As the next stage of objectives outlined in the Paris Agreement draws near, governmental bodies and various organizations are actively seeking to enhance the uptake of renewable energy sources. Certain regions, heavily reliant on energy consumption, offer additional incentives to encourage the exploration of alternatives to conventional energy methods. In Europe, the motivation arises from an energy crisis, while in the United States, it originates from the Inflation Reduction Act, a legislation passed in 2022 that designates $370 billion for clean-energy investments.

Additionally, there are the tasks related to system integration, encompassing the comprehensive planning and creation of energy management systems and additional software to enhance the adaptability and utility of BESS. We anticipate these integrators to capture an additional 25 to 30 percent of the profit allocation accessible.

Battery Storage Integration

Frequently Asked Questions

FlexGen's HybridOS is an advanced energy management software designed to optimize the performance and efficiency of battery energy storage systems. It integrates seamlessly with renewable energy sources, providing intelligent control, real-time monitoring, and predictive analytics to enhance energy storage and distribution.

Yes, FlexGen specializes in integrating renewable energy sources like solar and wind with their energy storage solutions. Their HybridOS software is specifically designed to manage and optimize the storage of renewable energy, ensuring a stable and efficient power supply.

FlexGen's battery storage solutions stand out due to their advanced HybridOS software, flexible hardware integration, and the ability to provide scalable, reliable, and efficient energy storage for a wide range of applications.