Battery Energy Storage Solutions
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) use containerised battery technology to store energy from energy generation sources, particularly renewable energy during peak generation, when there is excess, that can be stored and then discharged when required (during peak energy demand).
Main components of a BESS system:
Battery System – Battery cells are arranged into battery packs, which are then organised into battery racks, and these racks are integrated into a containerised storage system designed for high capacity Direct-Current (DC) energy storage.
Battery Management System (BMS) – The system of hardware and software that monitors and manages the operation and performance of the battery system by monitoring parameters such as the temperature, voltage and charge levels, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of the battery system.
Power Conversion System (PCS) – Inverter that converts the battery system’s DC energy into Alternating Current (AC) energy, which is used for commercial, industrial and power grid applications. The PCS is a bi-directional and allows for the charging and discharging of the battery cell.
Energy Management System (EMS) – The EMS coordinates the battery system, BMS, PCS and other components of the BESS system by collecting and analysing data used to manage and optimise the overall system performance.
The global demand and implementation of renewable energy generation plants has increased and will continue to for the foreseeable future, with solar PV and wind generation technologies driving the global deployment of clean energy production in modern power infrastructure.
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) is becoming a key technology in the transition to modern power infrastructure. A core feature of energy storage is that it supports balancing energy supply and demand. This reduces the need to have sufficient generation capacity to meet demand in real time. Energy storage enables some of the energy generated to be stored and then supplied during a later period. This feature of energy storage allows for dealing with the intermittency nature of renewable energy generation sources and allowing for maximum utilisation of renewable energy.
Lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) is the most popular and preferred choice for battery energy storage applications. LFP batteries are known for their compact size, lightweight design and have high energy capacity and energy density. LFP batteries require minimal maintenance and offer a greater number of life cycles (charge and discharge cycles) compared to other battery technologies.
Key characteristics of LFP technology:
- Higher energy density – store more energy per unit volume
- Long Cycle Life – more cycles compared to other battery chemistries
- Fast charging and discharging capabilities
- Increased cost effectiveness
Typical solar PV and BESS system operation
Battery storage system is charged from solar PV during peak generation and discharges stored energy during low generation and high demand, providing customers with energy cost savings during peak tariff.
Benefits of BESS
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Efficient, reliable and sustainable energy management
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Balanced and stable power demand and supply
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Reduced energy costs by optimising load management and lowering peak demand charges
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Maximises renewable energy utilisation
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Reduced carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels
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Improved grid performance by supporting frequency regulation and voltage stabilisation
BESS Applications
Intergration with Renewable Energy
Maximised utilisation of solar PV and wind energy generated enabling a stable supply of energy.
Commerical and Industrial
Commerical and industrial buildings and plants can reduce their energy costs by utilising BESS to power their facilities and avoid peak time charges and optimise on site generation and consumption.
Microgrids
Incorporating BESS with small-scale generation sources ensures optimisation of renewable energy sources, and ensures stability in supply and demand within the supply zone.
Transmission and Distribution Optimisation
Integration of BESS into the utility's grid can reduce congestion, control voltage, act as a reserve and provide ancillary services by balancing demand with supply.
Vecteng has over a decade of experience in the renewable energy industry and has been involved early on in the implementation of large-scale BESS projects in Southern Africa. Our BESS solutions combine the technology of Tier 1 battery, power-conversion OEM partners and the expertise of our local BESS specialist team. Vecteng supports it’s clients from start to finish in achieving improved energy supply, maximised energy cost-savings and the realisation of their sustainability goals.
Vecteng specialises in delivering turnkey EPC services for BESS, from concept to operations.
Vecteng's BESS Capabilities
Feasibility & Development
Conducting project feasibility | Optimal BESS system design & connection | Obtaining relevant permits, consents & licenses for the project
Project Finance
Financial modelling & contracting | Securing the required debt & equity
Design & Engineering
Preliminary designs | Capacity & cost optimisation | System arrangement & layout | Degradation profile | C - rating | Depth of discharge | Discharge profile | Round-Trip Efficiency | Network integration infrastructure
Tier 1 Technology Supply
Technology optimised for Client's requirements | Spares - critical, and standard | Tools & consumables
Construction & Commissioning
Detailed designs | Programme Management | SHERQ and compliance | Technology procurement | Civil, Electrical & Mechanical construction & installation | Specialist safety team - BESS safety engineers, fire safety engineers & hazard specialists | Grid-code Compliance (GCC) | Commissioning
Operations & Maintenance
Monitoring & Control | Plant operation – staffing, scheduling, spare parts & inventory, local & remote monitoring | Trouble shooting Project lifetime augmentation as required | Site Security (PSIRA accredited)
Stakeholder Management
Engagement with numerous stakeholders such as clients, lenders, investors, specialists, suppliers, contractors, local communities, NERSA, Eskom, IPPO
Capacity Building & Community Development
Skills development & knowledge transfer of the renewable energy technology. Community development & job creation.
Safety Features
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Internationally recognised certifications
Compliance to UL | NFPA | ISO standards
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Thermal Management System
Liquid cooling technology as the main cooling system to ensure effective battery cooling and temperature uniformity in the containerised battery solution
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Fire Detection and Suppression
Detection and mitigation of fire risks such as thermal runaway with each containerized battery solution in accordance with industry specifications
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24/7 365 - Real time monitoring
Real-time monitoring of the performance and operating condition of the battery system
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On site fire safety reticulation system
On site fire safety system designed by certified fire engineers accredited with SAQCC, SACPCMP, SAIOSH in conjunction with local fire departments
