What is a Battery Energy Storage System? A Beginner’s Guide to Efficient Energy Storage

In today’s world, where the demand for green energy is growing, renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power are playing a crucial role. Despite being abundant, their availability is inconsistent–they only generate electricity when the sun is shining or the wind is blowing. This intermittency poses a great challenge in renewable energy adoption. So, how do we ensure a reliable supply of renewable energy?

The answer lies in battery energy storage systems (BESS). But what exactly is it and why is it important? Simply put, a BESS allows us to store energy for later use, much like charging a phone battery, but on a much larger scale. At Jindal India Renewable Energy Limited, we are innovating energy storage solutions like BESS to create a more stable, efficient and sustainable energy supply. In this guide, we’ll explore how BESS works and its benefits.

Understanding Battery Energy Storage Systems

An energy storage system battery is essentially a system that stores electricity generated from various sources, such as wind, solar or hydropower, and then releases it when needed. Its working principle is also relatively simple. Energy is first generated by a power source, such as solar panels or wind turbines. This energy is then converted into electricity and stored in large-capacity batteries. When the electricity demand exceeds the supply or RE generation is low, the stored energy is released from the batteries and sent to the grid.

Key Benefits of Using a Battery Energy Storage System

Here are five key benefits that make BESS essential for a sustainable and efficient energy ecosystem:

1. Stabilising power supply

One of the most significant advantages of BESS is its ability to balance electricity supply and demand. Renewable energy sources like solar and wind are inconsistent, producing power only under certain conditions. A BESS can store excess energy generated during periods of low demand and release it when demand peaks, helping prevent blackouts and stabilising the grid, especially during unexpected surges in energy use.

2. Boosting RE generation

At Jindal India Renewable Energy Limited, we are exploring energy storage solutions like BESS to optimise the generation and utilisation of green energy. It is a key enabler of renewable energy generation, helping RE sources make a steady contribution to the power grid despite their inherently intermittent character. Whether it’s storing solar energy for use at night or wind power during calm periods, BESS ensures that renewable energy can be used whenever it is needed.

3. Cost savings for consumers

With an energy storage system, energy can be stored when it’s cheaper and more readily available such as during off-peak hours and used during periods of high demand when electricity prices are at their peak. This can lead to significant cost savings for consumers as well as utility providers. Moreover, BESS can supply backup power during power outages, allowing businesses to maintain productivity at no additional costs.

4. Enabling decentralised energy

As renewable energy gains popularity, the concept of microgrids or small, decentralised grids powered by local renewable energy sources such as solar power also becomes viable. With the integration of BESS, these microgrids can operate independently of the national grid, supplying stable power to remote or off-grid communities. This is especially important for rural India, where reliable electricity access remains a challenge.

The Role of Jindal India Renewable Energy Limited in BESS

At Jindal India Renewable Energy, we’re committed to promoting clean, renewable energy sources through various technologies, including Battery Energy Storage Systems. You’ll be glad to know that we aim to establish a 1 GWh battery pack assembly line, using Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) chemistry. LFP-based batteries combine safety, longevity and cost-effectiveness, making them ideal for large-scale energy storage systems.

By 2027, we will also foray into battery cell manufacturing with a 5 GWh capacity. By investing in BESS, we aim to create solutions that address the growing demand for green energy while reducing our carbon footprint. Our goal is to contribute to India’s ambitious goals of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030 and net zero carbon emissions by 2070.

Final Thoughts

Battery energy storage systems are essential for driving the future of green energy. Whether for residential use or large-scale grid applications, BESS can help shape a more energy-efficient future. By stabilising the power supply, boosting RE generation, lowering costs for consumers and enabling decentralised energy systems, BESS can propel India’s renewable energy ambitions and transform the way we generate, store and use power