FAQ

AC coupling is a method of connecting a battery inverter to an existing solar system. For small scale energy storage, this is highly beneficial because it allows for easy retrofitting. You can add a battery to your current commercial solar setup without modifying the existing solar inverter, making it a flexible and cost-effective upgrade.

The microgrid is disconnected from the main grid and operates independently.With the energy storage system in the microgrid serving as the main source of electricity, the microgrid needs to independently maintain the stability of voltage and frequency.

The microgrid operates in connection with the main grid.The main power grid is responsible for the main supply of electrical energy.The distributed energy sources (such as pv and energy storage) in the microgrid work in coordination with the main grid.The power and frequency are controlled by the main grid.

1.Define Application & Goals: Backup duration? Peak shaving? Energy arbitrage? Renewable integration?

2.Analyze Load Profile: Understand energy (kWh) and power (kW) requirements over time.

3.Select Battery Technology: Based on cost, cycle life, energy/power density, safety, etc. (LFP is common for stationary storage).

4.Size the System:

Energy Capacity (kWh): Determines how much energy can be stored/discharged. Based on required backup duration or daily cycling needs

Power Rating (kW): Determines how fast energy can be delivered/absorbed. Based on peak load demand or grid service requirements.

5.Select Power Conversion System (PCS): Choose a hybrid inverter or battery inverter compatible with the battery voltage/chemistry and sized for the required power.

6.Design Balance of Plant: Electrical (cabling, protection, switchgear), thermal management (cooling/heating), fire suppression, physical enclosure/racking.

7.Integrate Controls & Software: Battery Management System (BMS), Energy Management System (EMS) for overall control strategy, monitoring, and communication.

8.Safety & Compliance: Ensure design meets all local electrical codes, fire safety standards, and environmental regulations.

Battery Cells/Packs: Typically the largest cost component (50-70%).

Power Conversion System (PCS - Inverter/Charger): (10-20%).

Battery Management System (BMS) & Controls: (5-15%).

Thermal Management System: (5-10%).

Enclosure/Racking: (5-10%).

Balance of Plant (Cabling, Switchgear, Safety Systems): (5-15%).

Installation & Commissioning: (10-20%).

Soft Costs (Engineering, Permitting, Grid Connection): (5-15%).

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS): Using various battery chemistries (Li-ion - NMC, LFP; Lead-Acid; Flow Batteries, etc.).

Pumped Hydro Storage (PHS): Uses gravity and water.

Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES): Stores energy as compressed air.

Flywheel Energy Storage: Stores energy as rotational kinetic energy.

Thermal Energy Storage (TES): Stores energy as heat (e.g., molten salt, ice).

Hydrogen Storage: Electrolyzes water to store energy as hydrogen gas.

Supercapacitors: Store energy electrostatically, for very fast discharge/charge cycles.

The ATESS systems adopt BESS technology.

A Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is an integrated system that captures electrical energy (usually from the grid or renewable sources like solar), stores it in rechargeable batteries, and discharges it to provide electricity when needed. Key components include the battery modules/packs, a Battery Management System (BMS), a power conversion system (PCS - inverter/charger like a hybrid or battery inverter), and control/energy management systems.