Renewables


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Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) explained


Carlton Cummins, co-founder and CTO at clean technology firm Aceleron explains how battery storage increases our access to renewable energy – and what this means for installers as we begin to phase traditional boilers out


T


he climate emergency, combined with the continuing rise of energy prices and the UK’s cost of living crisis reminds us that there has


never been a more acute need for increasing our access to clean, ‘free’ renewable energy. Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) work by storing renewable and cheaper energy for use during high demand periods, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels for good.


BESS - offering customers maximum flexibility


A BESS combined with renewable technology such as solar PV can be connected to the grid, enabling a property to store excess clean energy either for its own use or for selling onto the grid. The system can also recharge from the grid during off-peak hours which: ¡ Makes use of cheaper tariffs ¡ Increases the possibilities for renewable energy ¡Helps to decarbonise the grid Should a customer wish to go entirely off-grid,


a larger capacity BESS combined with renewable technology such as solar PV would be able to provide a property’s heat and power – although more energy storage as a backup may be required for peace of mind. The most promising thing about this setup is that we already have everything we need to make it happen; we have the battery technology, solar panels, electricians and we have compliances and standards in place for a smooth, safe integration. Another big selling point for BESS is that it is usually modular. If demand for power increases, it


is possible to just add more batteries without the upheaval, expense and waste of stripping a boiler and central heating system out and starting again. There are a number of different BESS products


currently available, from high-end, sleek units to a product with excellent after sales support or a serviceable and repairable unit with a longer lifespan. Whilst the principle of energy storage remains the same, each product has its own unique offering which will suit different customers.


The big boiler phase-out: making the case for a serviceable, upgradeable system


With the phasing out of gas and oil fired boilers starting as early as 2025, alternative solutions such as air source and ground source heat pumps, solar and wind technologies are frequently talked about. All of these solutions can, will, and do work, but storing the clean energy that is generated will be absolutely integral to safeguarding our power supply.


It is imperative therefore, that BESS should


have a long life expectancy. This is why installing a circular economy system that can be serviced, maintained and upgraded as technology advances is key. There is no point in installing something that will become obsolete a decade later, not just because of the costs involved in replacing an entire system but also because of the colossal waste of materials and resources. With a BESS where parts are removable, the


service engineer who services the system once a year (just like with existing boilers), can take the removed parts away either for repurposing into second-life products or sending into various recycling channels. This has the added bonus of giving the customer peace of mind that they are not contributing to a waste problem. Whilst installers and electricians will be kept busy as the transition gathers pace and demand for access to clean technology increases, it would be wise to look at the longer game – repeat business in the form of servicing, repairs and upgrade will ensure business continuity.


The circular economy explained


The principle behind a circular economy is to create products whose components will go on to have further use in second, third or even fourth life products, before parts are recycled and used again. The aim of a circular economy, is to eliminate


waste and reduce pollution by circulating materials and maximising the usefulness of the products that we build in future. Energy storage is no exception. We use batteries


Above: Carlton Cummins, co-founder and CTO at Aceleron


in a vast array of settings, from mobile phones to EVs and homes so it is essential that we adjust our attitude from using and recommending disposable products to championing products that can be repurposed once they no longer have use in their current state.


14 August 2022


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