1. What is BESS?

First, BESS stands for “Battery Energy Storage Systems,” which are used to store large amounts of energy from various sources such as renewable energy (solar, wind, etc.) or electricity from the national grid and discharge energy when needed. BESS can be considered a backup charger for solar power systems. The BESS system consists of one or more batteries, used to balance the power grid, provide backup energy, and improve the stability of the power grid. The type of battery commonly used for this system is lithium-ion.

Explore the products for BESS offered by VAS.

2. Advantages of BESS systems:

• Cost savings on energy:

BESS systems are often relied upon to store surplus energy from renewable sources such as solar power and wind farms, providing it to loads when necessary. Additionally, factories often use energy storage systems to minimize electricity costs by storing energy during off-peak hours and using it during peak hours. This can significantly reduce electricity bills in the long term.

• Maximizing the potential of renewable energy:

The downside of renewable energy sources is their instability, and the amount of electricity generated is affected by weather conditions (solar power systems generate less electricity on rainy days than on sunny days). Implementing BESS solutions helps stabilize the quality and output of electricity from unstable renewable energy sources, ensuring a continuous power supply for customers.

• Stabilizing the power system:

This energy storage technology also acts as a backup power source when the national grid experiences power outages or extreme weather affects the electricity generation process of renewable energy. As a result, customers can save on costly investments for upgrading distribution systems or emergency generators. The BESS system also helps reduce carbon emissions compared to using diesel generators.

 3. The role, benefits, and limitations of BESS in solar power systems:

Role:

• This energy storage battery system helps optimize and enhance the performance of solar power systems by storing excess electricity generated from solar energy during the day and using it at night or during inclement weather. 
• The BESS system helps balance and stabilize the electricity supply, minimizing the risk of power outages due to fluctuations in time or weather conditions of solar energy. 
• Customers can also maximize their electricity bill savings by charging the BESS system during low electricity prices and supplying their needs when electricity prices are high.

Benefits:

• Optimization of renewable energy sources: Storing excess energy from renewable sources such as wind and solar, addressing the imbalance between supply and demand. 
• Stable grid operation: Storing excess energy and discharging it when demand peaks, reducing outages and ensuring a stable electricity supply. This feature of the BESS system significantly mitigates the issue of power outages due to various problems.
• Reduction of emissions and optimization of peak hour electricity: Minimizing greenhouse gas emissions by reducing dependence on large power plants, especially during peak hours.
• Electricity consumption management and backup energy source: Managing increased electricity demand and providing backup power during outages.
• Increased independence in electricity supply: Helping households and businesses reduce their dependence on the grid. Now, each unit can be self-sufficient in energy according to its usage needs.

Limitations:

• High initial investment costs: Requires a significant financial commitment, especially for large-scale systems.
• Complex management and maintenance: Demands high operational expertise and professional maintenance.
• Concerns about lifespan and durability: Some types of batteries have a short lifespan, affecting long-term reliability and performance.
• Environmental and health risks: Some batteries contain hazardous materials, necessitating strict regulations for handling and recycling.
• Energy conversion losses: A portion of energy is lost during the conversion process, reducing overall efficiency.

4. Common types of batteries used for BESS:

• Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries: These are the most popular batteries in energy storage systems due to advantages such as high energy density, high efficiency, and long lifespan.
• Sodium-ion (Na-ion) batteries: These are direct competitors to lithium-ion batteries due to lower production costs, abundant raw materials, and greater safety (sodium is less chemically reactive than lithium, reducing the risk of fire and explosion).
• Zinc-air batteries: Utilize zinc as the anode and oxygen from the air as the cathode. This type of battery has significant advantages, including high energy density and environmental friendliness (the materials are easily sourced and do not pollute the environment).

5. Main applications of BESS:

• Commercial & Industrial (C&I):
  • Peak Shaving: Reduces demand charges by lowering energy consumption from the grid during peak hours.
  • Load Shifting: Uses stored energy during high electricity price periods, reducing electricity costs.
  • Flexible operation: Allows for adjustments in electricity demand from the grid during critical periods without changing overall energy consumption.
  • Support for microgrids: Provides energy storage to maintain independent operation from the main grid during power outages.
  • Integration of renewable energy: Stores excess energy from renewable energy sources.

• Households (Residential):
  • Enhancing self-consumption: Storing excess solar energy during the day and using it at night, optimizing solar energy usage, increasing the return on investment in renewable energy, and reducing electricity costs.
  • Reliable backup power solutions: Ensuring a sustainable energy source during power outages.
  • Energy independence: Households can be completely independent from the power grid.

 6. Conclusion:

BESS systems play a crucial role in creating a green, clean, and sustainable energy future that countries are striving for. Energy storage systems have the potential to change how we consume and store energy, allowing us broader access to clean energy solutions such as solar and wind in a sustainable and cost-effective manner.

At VAS, we confidently assert our position as a leading expert in the installation of rooftop solar energy systems combined with BESS solutions for commercial and industrial applications. For more information or detailed consultation on renewable energy solutions (solar energy, BESS, Microgrid), please contact our hotline at 0766 666 480 for dedicated support and advice.