Using energy storage to stabilise grids and increase revenues

Abstract

Electric networks are facing unprecedented challenges. Increasing security concerns, more frequent natural disasters, and growing shares of renewables are adding stress to these networks. There are new solutions based on energy storage, smart automation, and controls that stabilise grids, which can reduce the curtailment of local renewable generators and provide continuous power to network customers. An innovative Hitachi ABB Power Grids grid edge solution in South Australia's lower Yorke Peninsula demonstrates how e-mesh control, management, automation, and the PowerStore Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) improve reliability and resilience in the network. The project unlocks new revenue streams from both the local network and the national energy market. Since beginning operation in late 2018, the 30 MW ESCRI (Energy Storage for Commercial Renewable Integration) Dalrymple BESS drastically reduced outages from 8 h down to 30 min within its first 6 months of operation. The solution allows >100 km of network feeders to island, limiting curtailment from the 91 MW Wattle Point Wind Farm and >2 MW of distributed rooftop solar panels. While islanded, local network customers continue to receive secure, reliable power entirely from renewable sources. The demonstrated functionalities – in particular, fast response and synthetic inertia – unlock new revenue opportunities for BESS deployment globally.