Battery storage is primarily used to store surplus energy and use it at a later time when energy production is lower or demand is higher. This is especially important in systems with renewable energy sources such as wind and solar that are intermittent and do not always produce energy when it is needed.
In addition, there are many businesses that require a particularly large amount of energy at certain times of the day, such as bakeries. Battery storage allows them to use cheaper stored energy while ensuring greater security of supply. In this context, battery storage also helps to avoid grid overloads that lead to power outages. In addition, battery storage can serve as a backup power source in emergencies, should the power supply ever fail.
In recent years, the development of battery storage systems has reached an absolute peak. Thanks to the development of lithium-ion batteries and other advanced technologies, systems can now store much more energy than was previously possible. By using used second- or third-life batteries, the operation of battery storage systems can also be made particularly sustainable and efficient.
NOVUM supports manufacturers and operators of battery storage systems with the help of artificial intelligence to keep an eye on their systems around the clock and to avoid failures or overheating. Anomalies that could lead to problems later on are identified in time with the help of NOVUM, so that employees can intervene before difficulties arise.
At the same time, AI creates maximum transparency for marketing strategies. For example, it is possible to simulate different usage scenarios for an energy storage system and thus make an informed decision as to which application it will last the longest and be most economically viable.
How is a stationary battery storage system constructed?
Battery storage can vary greatly depending on the purpose and manufacturer. For example, it makes a big difference whether they are used for home applications or as large storage systems as part of the energy grid. However, stationary energy storage systems generally always consist of the following components:
- Battery modules consisting of several battery cells and an electronic assembly
- Battery racks in which a certain number of modules are interconnected and which usually have their own rack controller
- Battery management system that coordinates all racks, identical to the rack controller for home storage systems
- Battery housing, often called a container for large battery storage systems
- Inverter, responsible for turning the battery’s direct current into grid-compatible alternating current.
Very large battery storage systems often have multiple inverters to allow different groups of modules to be used in different ways. However, there are also battery storage systems that do not require an inverter at all, e.g. if they are part of a DC grid.
What are the dangers of battery storage?
Battery storage poses a potential risk for fires, explosions, chemical leaks and electrical shock. When battery storage fails, it can have a variety of impacts, depending on how the storage is integrated into the power system. Here are some possible scenarios:
- Grid-operated battery storage: If the battery storage is part of the power grid, a failure may mean that the storage can no longer be used as a buffer for the grid. This affects the power supply when storage plays an important role in grid stability or peak balancing and, in the worst case, blackouts occur.
- Stand-alone battery storage: If the battery storage is operated independently of the power grid, a failure can result in the power demand no longer being met. This is especially problematic if the battery storage is a critical power source for a medical facility or telecommunications network, for example. Backup batteries must therefore never be used individually, but must by law always be installed at least in a double pack, so that failures can be compensated for as far as possible.
- Hybrid battery systems: In hybrid systems consisting of multiple battery storage units, a failure of one storage unit can result in the other storage units being more heavily loaded. This in turn can shorten the life of the remaining battery storage and lead to higher maintenance costs.
With NOVUM technology, operators can keep an eye on their storage facility around the clock with the help of artificial intelligence to prevent such scenarios from occurring in the first place.
Are used lithium-ion batteries suitable for battery storage operation?
Basically yes! The decisive factor is the condition of a lithium-ion battery and how safety is ensured. With the help of NOVUM technology, the sustainable, safe and profitable operation of second-life battery storage can be easily realized.
Important: If used batteries are used, they must be carefully selected and tested to ensure that they meet the requirements of the energy storage device. We are happy to support and advise you in this process.
Advantages of second-life batteries as a component of battery storage systems
- Cost: Used batteries can often be purchased at a lower price than new batteries, which can reduce the cost of building a battery storage system. Many companies that use batteries themselves on a large scale are now opting to build their own battery storage using second-life batteries or are selling their batteries to appropriate parties.
- Sustainability: The use of used batteries helps to reduce the need for new batteries, thus saving resources and energy. In addition, used batteries from electric vehicles or other applications can be recycled, reducing the environmental impact and carbon footprint of the entire company.
- Availability: Used batteries may be more readily available than new batteries, especially in regions where battery production is not as advanced. The use of used batteries also makes us less dependent on raw material suppliers such as China.
