THE IMPORTANCE OF BESS IN THE ENERGY TRANSITION
In the current context of climate urgency and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the transition to a sustainable energy system has become a global priority. While renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power have made great progress, energy efficiency and management still remain a crucial challenge. Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) or energy storage batteries are rapidly transition emerging as a key solution to achieve the goal and overcome the challenges of integrating renewable energy into the power grid. These systems offer a number of advantages that make them indispensable in the energy transition process.
This article will explore the key role of BESS in the energy transition.
We first explain what Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are by briefly illustrating their function.
BESS, or battery energy storage systems, are container-like devices that enable the storage and release of electrical energy using batteries. These systems are designed to store electricity during periods of low demand or when production from renewable sources is abundant and then release it when demand is high, or production is limited.
This function plays a key role in the energy transition process, as it goes to zero on certain issues, let’s see them in detail.
Integration of renewable sources
One of the main challenges of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, is their intermittency. Energy production depends on weather conditions and can vary greatly throughout the day or year. BESSs can play a key role in integrating these sources into the energy infrastructure precisely through their main function, which we explained just above, namely storing energy generated during periods of high production and releasing it when demand exceeds supply. This balances the intermittency of renewable sources, ensuring a stable and continuous supply of energy.
Emission reduction and flexibility
BESSs not only promote the integration of renewable sources but also contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. By enabling the efficient use of energy, these systems reduce dependence on fossil fuels and promote a low-carbon economy. In addition, BESSs offer operational flexibility, as they can be easily sized and adapted to the specific needs of a given power grid. This flexibility is critical for managing fluctuations in supply and demand and for dealing with emergency situations such as blackouts or grid outages.
Grid stabilization and reliability improvement
The presence of BESSs in the power grid contributes to its stabilization and improvement of overall reliability. These systems can provide frequency and voltage regulation services, ensuring consistent power quality and rapid response to load variations. BESSs can act as power reserves in the event of grid outages or natural disasters, allowing power supply to be maintained in affected areas.
Promotion of electrification and sustainable mobility
BESSs are not only relevant for stabilizing electricity grids, but also for promoting sustainable electric mobility. The use of batteries for energy storage enables the development of charging infrastructure for electric vehicles, making them a real alternative to fossil fuel vehicles. In addition, the energy stored in BESSs can be used to power electric transportation vehicles and further reduce the environmental impact of transportation systems.
In the current landscape of urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change, BESSs emerge as key elements in the transition to a sustainable energy system. Integrating renewables, reducing emissions, providing operational flexibility, stabilizing the grid, and promoting electrification are just some of the reasons why BESSs are indispensable. Europe has also realized their importance. In April 2023, European Energy Commissioner Kadri Simson during a debate with Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) on the role of energy storage in the European electricity system, called BESSs vital for the energy transition.
All of this points to how investing in the development and deployment of such systems is critical to ensuring a safe, clean and efficient energy future.
The energy transition process is already underway, and BESSs play a central role in shaping our sustainable future. A future that Redelfi holds particularly close to its heart, which is why it is actively engaged in the development of sustainable infrastructure of Battery Energy Storage Systems parks in the US.
