Investigating the design criteria of battery energy storage systems for large scale commercial projects

Abstract

As the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions has increased in recent years, Battery Energy Storage Systems have been identified as one of the sustainable solutions expected to contribute in improving the sustainability of energy systems and efficiently using renewable energy to reduce the reliance on fossil fuels. This dissertation aims to investigate the design and implementation criteria specifically applicable to the deployment of Battery Energy Storage Systems for large commercial buildings. In this context, a comprehensive review of the current state-of-the-art battery storage technologies is carried out, and their applications for commercial project are outlined. The design criteria for sizing and configuring battery storage systems are analysed, in addition to implementation criteria, with particular attention given to fire safety and environmental concerns. The dissertation makes use of a case study to determine the feasibility of deploying a Battery Energy Storage System for a commercial project being designed in Malta. The feasibility of this system is analysed using the System Advisor Model software. Various iterations of simulations were carried out to improved the BESS design from a techno economical perspective and the outcomes were crucial for determining the current feasibility of implementing Battery Energy Storage Systems for similar projects. While implementing such systems proved to have considerable reductions in energy imported from the grid, thus improving on sustainability, the current market rates were still found to be non-economically feasible, and need to be improved to make such systems more effective in the future.