In our continuous effort to innovate and provide top-notch solutions in energy management, we introduce a new functionality of the FLOWBOX system: Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). BESS enables maximizing the use of energy from renewable sources, reduces undesirable energy overflow, and assists in balancing peaks.
What is BESS?
BESS is a technology that allows for the storage of electrical energy for later use using battery storage. BESS can be used for various purposes, including ensuring stable energy supply, optimizing the use of energy from renewable sources such as solar panels or wind turbines, reducing energy costs, and increasing energy independence. BESS systems allow for more efficient use of produced energy by storing excess energy during low consumption times and releasing it when demand is high or production from renewable sources is insufficient. Thanks to its flexibility and rapid deployment capability, BESS plays a key role in transitioning to more sustainable energy systems and supports stable and efficient operation of energy networks. Now, this functionality is also offered by FLOWBOX software.
BESS Functionality Tested at Baumruk&Baumruk Factory
We demonstrate the practical use of BESS with our client, the industrial plant Baumruk&Baumruk, where we manage the charging and discharging of a 600kWh BESS depending on the available power of 600 kWp photovoltaic panels (PV) and internal energy needs up to a maximum of 380 kW. The goal is not only to maximize PV production but also to prevent unnecessary energy overflow and optimize consumption.
<div class="stats-element is-min-height text-color-black"><div class="heading-style-h4" style="margin-bottom:1rem;">Key Features and Benefits of BESS Functionality:</div><div class="w-richtext"><ul role="list"><li>Intelligent Charging/Discharging Management: We use structured FLOWBOX AI algorithms to ensure your batteries are always optimally utilized.</li><li>Connection with Renewable Sources: BESS is integrated with PV and backup generators (UPS) to match your real-time energy needs.</li><li>Optimization According to Reserved Capacity: Management includes compensation for consumption peaks and is designed to minimize the required reserved capacity.</li><li>Adaptability to Market SPOT Prices: Battery charging is managed based on current market energy prices and predictions, ensuring energy is purchased and stored at the most advantageous times, i.e., energy management on the spot.</li><li>Predictive Management: The system takes into account a 48-hour prediction of PV system production, allowing even better planning for battery charging and discharging.</li></ul></div></div>
BESS Management in FLOWBOX Software
In FLOWBOX Software, the management of BESS (Battery Energy Storage Systems) and UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supplies) systems is a key element for efficient energy use and ensuring uninterrupted electric power supply. Our advanced BESS management is based on several fundamental pillars that ensure optimal performance and reliability of energy for our clients.
Structured FLOWBOX AI Algorithms
We use our own structured AI algorithms for managing charging and discharging, which intelligently optimize energy flows. These algorithms take into account not only the current battery charge state but also the energy production forecast and consumption, maximizing the efficiency of stored energy use. The advantage of the Flowbox system is the ability to create algorithms tailored to the specific arrangement and efficiently connect needs.
Integration with Renewable Sources and Backup Generators
FLOWBOX Software efficiently manages the connection of BESS and UPS systems with renewable energy sources and backup generators. This ensures that the energy needs of consumption sites are covered with maximum efficiency and minimum costs, utilizing data from historical development and predictive analysis for informed decision-making.
Management According to Reserved Capacity and Consumption Peaks
Our software includes specific functions for overall consumption balance management according to reserved capacity and for compensating consumption peaks. This means, for example, the ability to predict and optimize for quarter-hour maxima by involving energy from battery storage and PV, which significantly reduces energy costs and improves overall energy efficiency.
Adaptive Charging Management
Another innovative aspect of our BESS management is adaptive charging of batteries based on market energy prices (SPOT prices). This way, FLOWBOX Software can optimize energy costs by preferring to charge batteries at times when energy prices are lower and conversely allowing the deployment of accumulated energy when prices are high or there could be a breach of reserved capacity.
PV System Production Prediction
We use a 48-hour prediction of photovoltaic system (PV) production for planning BESS charging and discharging. This allows for proactive response to expected changes in energy production and ensures that the system is always prepared to use available solar energy as efficiently as possible. We leave enough space in the battery for energy accumulation from PV or perform optimized charging at the moment when cheap energy is available in spot price mode.
Monitoring and Response to Fault and Alarm States
Finally, the autonomous FLOWBOX Software continuously monitors the system to identify fault and alarm states, enabling quick response to any issues and ensuring continuous safety and reliable energy supply.
Importance for Sustainability and the Future of Energy
By integrating BESS into FLOWBOX Software, we are a step closer to more sustainable energy. This technology not only reduces the need for energy from fossil fuels but also increases the efficiency of renewable energy sources use, thereby accelerating the achievement of energy independence and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This is the goal not only for us at FLOWBOX but also for all building owners - whether industrial facilities or residential buildings.