While the introduction of renewable energy is progressing, the issue that its output fluctuation threatens the stability of power systems has become apparent. The key to solving this problem is BESS (Battery Energy Storage System). In this article, I will explain in detail how BESS promotes the introduction of renewable energy and contributes to stabilizing power supply, its mechanism, implementation examples, technical issues, and future prospects.
What is BESS? The importance of introducing renewable energy
BESS is a system that stores electrical energy and releases it when needed. In recent years, with the spread of renewable energy, the importance of BESS has rapidly increased.
Renewable energy issues and the role of BESS
The amount of renewable energy generated by renewable energy such as solar power and wind power fluctuates greatly depending on the weather and time of day. This output fluctuation has a significant impact on the power system and may cause instability in the power supply.
Renewable energy output fluctuations and their impact on power systems
Fluctuations in the output of renewable energy cause fluctuations in the frequency and voltage of the power system, and in the worst case, there is a risk that it will lead to power outages. In particular, this problem is becoming more serious in regions where the amount of renewable energy introduced is large.
Power supply instability solved by BESS
BESS contributes to stabilizing power supply by storing surplus electricity from renewable energy and releasing it when demand for electricity is high. This makes it possible to maintain a balance in the power system and promote the introduction of renewable energy.
Basic configuration and operating principle of BESS
BESS consists of battery cells, power conversion devices (PCS), control systems, etc. These components work together to achieve efficient power storage and emission.
Key components that make up BESS
Key components of BESS include:
Battery cell: A device for storing electrical energy. Lithium-ion batteries are the mainstream, but development of next-generation batteries is also underway.
Power converter (PCS): A device that converts DC power into AC power and vice versa. It is essential when transferring power between batteries and power systems.
Control system: A system that monitors and controls the operation of the entire BESS. It optimizes battery charging and discharging and maintains safe operation.
Electricity storage and emission mechanisms
BESS stores the power supplied by the power system in a battery and releases it to the power system as needed. This charging/discharging process is precisely controlled by PCS and control systems to achieve efficient energy management.
Advantages of introducing BESS in electric power companies
By introducing BESS, electric power companies can enjoy various benefits, such as stabilizing power supply and reducing costs.
Stabilize power supply and improve reliability
BESS greatly contributes to stabilizing power systems and improves power reliability.
Leveling power loads due to peak shifts
Power loads can be leveled by supplying power from BESS during times when power demand peaks. This reduces the burden on the power system and maintains a stable power supply.
Effective Use of Renewable Energy and System Stabilization
BESS absorbs fluctuations in renewable energy output and contributes to stabilizing power systems. This will increase the amount of renewable energy introduced and bring us closer to the realization of a sustainable energy society.
Cost savings and economic benefits
The introduction of BESS will lead to reduced operating costs for electric power companies and the creation of new revenue opportunities.
Reduce fuel costs and optimize operating costs
BESS can curb the operation of thermal power plants used to meet peak electricity demand. This reduces fuel costs and optimizes operating costs.
Creating profit opportunities in the electricity market
BESS can create new revenue opportunities by buying and selling electricity in the electricity market. In particular, profits can be maximized by supplying electricity from BESS during times when electricity prices are high.
BESS Case Study: Domestic and International Trends
Both domestically and internationally, the introduction of BESS is being actively promoted. Here are a few examples.
BESS implementation case of Nidec Co., Ltd.
Nidec Co., Ltd. is proceeding with the installation of BESS on the site of a thermal power plant in line with the spread of renewable energy.
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<a href="https://www.nidec.com/jp/technology/casestudy/bess/"></a>https://www.nidec.com/jp/technology/casestudy/bess/
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Installation of BESS on the site of a thermal power plant
The former thermal power plant site is an ideal location for BESS because it is easy to connect to the power grid. Nidec is taking advantage of this location to promote the adoption of renewable energy.
BESS's plan to double battery capacity in the UK
In the UK, 13 GW of energy storage is required by 2030, and BESS's battery capacity is expected to double. This shows that the importance of BESS is growing as the introduction of renewable energy expands.
The spread of household storage batteries in the US and Germany
In the US and Germany, the introduction of small-scale batteries and solar power generation is progressing at the household level. It is offered at competitive prices, and BESS is becoming a familiar presence even in ordinary households.
Major operators supporting the introduction of BESS
There are many businesses in Japan and overseas that support the introduction of BESS. Here are a few key operators.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.: Electricity and Energy Storage Solutions
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries provides electricity storage and energy storage solutions that are optimal for customer environments. It functions as a backup for renewable energy, and in combination with gas turbines, enables a more powerful energy supply.
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<a href="https://solutions.mhi.com/jp/natural-gas/bess-battery-energy-storage-system/"></a>https://solutions.mhi.com/jp/natural-gas/bess-battery-energy-storage-system/
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Moxa Corporation: Integrated Battery Energy Storage System
Moxa provides an integrated battery energy storage system (BESS) utilizing lithium-ion batteries. This system maintains the stability of the power grid by efficiently storing energy and distributing electricity when needed.
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<a href="https://www.moxa.com/jp/spotlight-jp/integrated-solutions/power/battery-energy-storage-system/index"> </a>https://www.moxa.com/jp/spotlight-jp/integrated-solutions/power/battery-energy-storage-system/index
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Delta Japan Co., Ltd.: Energy Storage Solutions
Delta Japan provides energy storage solutions, including BESS, and balances supply and demand by making adjustments on the power generation side and the demand side. This reduces power grid fluctuations and unexpected failures, and realizes a stable supply of renewable energy.
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<a href="https://www.delta-japan.jp/ja-JP/solutions/Energy-Storage-Solutions/ALL/"></a>https://www.delta-japan.jp/ja-JP/solutions/Energy-Storage-Solutions/ALL/
</p>
Co., Ltd. Text: BESS Solution
The text supports a stable supply of electricity by providing infrastructure to produce and store renewable energy and reducing power grid fluctuations and failures.
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<a href="https://www.te.com/ja/industries/automation-control/applications/bess-solutions.html">https://www.te.com/ja/industries/automation-control/applications/bess-solutions.html</a>
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Little Fuse Co., Ltd.: Battery Energy Storage Systems
Littlefuses offers comprehensive circuit protection solutions for BESS that effectively stores electricity from renewable energy sources such as solar and wind and makes it available as needed.
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<a href="https://www.littelfuse.com/ja-jp/applications/renewable-energy/battery-energy-storage">https://www.littelfuse.com/ja-jp/applications/renewable-energy/battery-energy-storage</a>
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Advantech Co., Ltd.: BESS through the construction of IoT infrastructure
Advantech provides energy storage solutions, including BESS, and is building energy management systems to meet the growth of renewable energy and microgrids.
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<a href="https://www.advantech.com/ja-jp/resources/case-study/iot-infura-no-kouchiku">https://www.advantech.com/ja-jp/resources/case-study/iot-infura-no-kouchiku</a>
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Technical issues and solutions for implementing BESS
There are also technical issues with implementing BESS. Here, we will discuss the main challenges and solutions.
Advances in battery technology and performance improvements
Battery technology is an important factor affecting BESS's performance.
The latest trends in lithium-ion batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are currently the most popular batteries, but further technological innovation is required in terms of energy density, longevity, safety, etc.
Development of next-generation battery technology
Development of next-generation battery technologies, such as all-solid-state batteries and metal-air batteries, is underway. If these technologies are put into practical use, it is expected that the performance of BESS will be greatly improved.
BESS safety and reliability
The safety and reliability of BESS are important factors when considering implementation.
Thermal management and safety measures
Overheating a battery can lead to a fire or explosion. Therefore, proper thermal management and safety measures are essential.
System monitoring and fault diagnosis
BESS system monitoring and fault diagnosis are critical to maintaining stable operation. By detecting abnormalities at an early stage and taking appropriate measures, trouble can be prevented.
Future prospects for introducing BESS
BESS is likely to play an increasingly important role in accelerating the spread of renewable energy.
The spread of renewable energy and the expansion of the BESS market
The BESS market is rapidly expanding as the adoption of renewable energy expands. Demand for BESS is expected to continue increasing in the future.
BESS's role in smart grids
BESS also plays an important role in smart grids. A smart grid is a system that utilizes information and communication technology to optimize power systems. BESS adjusts the balance between electricity supply and demand in smart grids and contributes to stabilizing power systems.
Toward the Realization of a Sustainable Energy Society
BESS promotes the introduction of renewable energy and is an essential technology for realizing a sustainable energy society. Going forward, it is expected that the use of BESS will continue to advance further through technology development and accumulation of case studies.
**Additional Information**
According to data from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, renewable energy costs are expected to be reduced in the 2030 power generation cost forecast. Also, a McKinsey study suggests that energy costs can be reduced by introducing BESS. The EY report shows investment guidelines for battery energy storage, which can be used as a reference when considering implementing BESS.
As for BESS's cost reduction plan, China is actively working on it, and the goal is to reduce costs by 30%. Also, the cumulative cost amount related to BESS is estimated at 13 trillion yen to 25 trillion yen. This information is an important indicator for evaluating the economics of implementing BESS.
**Summary**
BESS is a technology that plays a very important role in promoting the introduction of renewable energy and contributing to stabilizing electricity supply. Going forward, it is expected that the use of BESS will continue to advance further through technological innovation and accumulation of case studies. When considering implementing BESS, it is important to select the optimal system that suits your company's needs by referring to the information introduced in this article.
