Solar Power and Energy Storage Solutions
A new challenge is facing us today. This challenge is ensuring the resiliency of our power grid as more and more renewable generation sources come on-line. The growth in renewables to combat climate change by reducing emissions from coal and natural gas plants is no longer an experiment to save humanity, it has hit full speed. However, the intermittent nature of solar and wind power introduces a new twist for the likes of grid operators like PJM, MISO, and other RTOs. Their charter is to match electrical generation with electrical demand from consumers to ensure a balance of power and, thus, a consistent frequency and voltage on the grid. When an ever-growing portion of power generation on the grid can fluctuate rapidly with the likes of clouds and whether or not the wind is blowing, grid operators are left scratching their heads about how to close the gaps in this intermittent generation.
Enter energy storage. Solar and wind generation produce enormous amounts of clean energy when the sun shines and wind blows. In fact, they frequently produce more energy than can be absorbed by the electrical grid at the time when they are operating, so this excess energy needs a place to go.
Batteries solve this problem. Whether it’s Li-ion, Vanadium Redox, or sulfur-based flow batteries, these technologically advanced storage products can and are providing solutions to this challenge. Batteries can store excess energy to be deployed at later times, thus providing power continuity to the grid as we migrate to renewable sources of energy. But this is not the only use case for batteries.
ESS as part of a Microgrid
More commonly called Energy Storage Systems (ESS) or Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), these batteries can be implemented as an integral part of a microgrid for companies that have a desire to go green without sacrificing continuity of power. The stored energy can maintain the lights on and critical equipment operating when grid power is not available. When paired with solar PV systems, these microgrids can provide power resiliency and continuity of power for hours on end. They can also be deployed to provide an income stream and electric bill reduction by participating in wholesale energy markets.
Recent developments in both Illinois (Climate Equitable Jobs Act or CEJA) and federal legislation (Inflation Reduction act or IRA) make implementing battery solutions more attractive through rebate programs and tax incentives.
Continental Energy Solutions has been designing, installing, and maintaining ESS and microgrid solutions for our customers for nearly 10 years. Lithium-ion and flow battery solutions paired with solar, designed and installed by Continental can provide smart investments with short paybacks and significant internal rates of return (IRR).
Our team of engineers and project managers with our full EPC services can assess your company’s needs for power resiliency and implement a microgrid solution that addresses Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals, meets financial hurdles, and helps mitigate climate change and your carbon footprint.
Learn more about ESS and Microgrid projects we have completed:
G&W Business site
G+W Electric – Continental Energy Solutions
Libman
Contact Us to learn more about microgrids or battery storage.