Tower energy storage centralized procurement

Will energy storage save the energy industry?

It’s generation . . . it’s transmission . . . it’s energy storage! The renewable energy industry continues to view energy storage as the superhero that will save it from its greatest problem—intermittent energy production and the resulting grid reliability issues that such intermittent generation engenders.

What are the implications of a combined renewables-plus-storage project?

There will be important implications for a combined renewables-plus-storage project depending upon whether the project is DC coupled or AC coupled. For example, AC coupled systems are generally viewed as being simpler since the renewable energy storage can be connected separately with AC power.

How do energy storage contracts work?

For standalone energy storage contracts, these are typically structured with a fixed monthly capacity payment plus some variable cost per megawatt hour (MWh) of throughput. For a combined renewables-plus-storage project, it may be structured with an energy-only price in lieu of a fixed monthly capacity payment.

What are the safety requirements for energy storage technologies?

Safety: Minimum safety and operating requirements are common considerations for energy projects. Energy storage resources present additional safety concerns given their unique technological profiles. For battery storage technologies in particular, safety requirements should adequately address fire risks.

Can energy storage resources be financed on a nonrecourse basis?

Key Finance-ability Provisions: Energy storage resources may also be financed on a nonrecourse basis and, like any other project financed in such manner, will need to address issues upon which nonrecourse lenders will focus, including assignment, events of default, performance requirements, key dates, and collateral.

What are the operational limitations of energy storage?

Operating Limitations: Energy storage resources may be subject to operational constraints that do not affect traditional generation projects. For example, certain battery technologies will degrade more quickly if the state of charge is not actively managed within a certain range.