Emergency power supply using C&I energy storage systems
The reliability of the power supply is crucial for companies and industrial operations. Even short power outages can cause significant financial losses, interrupt production processes, and even pose security risks in critical infrastructures. Commercial & Industrial (C&I) energy storage systems have established themselves in recent years as a flexible and efficient solution for emergency power supply and offer numerous advantages over conventional systems.
Basics of Backup Power Supply
Backup power supply refers to systems that provide power to critical or selected consumers in the event of a failure or disruption of the regular grid supply. Traditionally, diesel generators were primarily used for this purpose, but these are associated with start-up delays, maintenance costs, and environmental impacts. C&I energy storage systems offer a modern alternative with immediate response time and the ability to perform other functions during normal operation.
Backup power supply can take various forms depending on the requirements profile. With an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), the system switches to the backup power source without any delay, while with an emergency power supply, short interruptions lasting a few seconds can be tolerated. C&I energy storage systems are particularly suitable for implementing UPS systems because they can respond with virtually no delay.
How C&I energy storage systems work in backup power supply
A C&I energy storage system for backup power supply typically consists of several core components: the battery units, the power electronics, the battery management system, and the higher-level control system. During normal operation, the battery storage system is maintained at a defined charge level so that it can immediately resume power supply in the event of a power failure. Highly sophisticated systems feature grid monitoring that continuously analyzes parameters such as voltage, frequency, and grid quality.
When a grid fault is detected, the system switches to island operation within milliseconds. The connection to the public grid is disconnected, and the loads are supplied from the battery storage system. The power electronics convert the direct current from the battery into grid-compliant alternating current. Modern systems are capable of ensuring high voltage quality, often even better than that of the regular grid.
The bridging time depends on the dimensioning of the storage system and the load. Typical systems are designed for bridging times ranging from 15 minutes to several hours. For longer outages, hybrid solutions are often implemented, in which the battery storage system provides immediate bridging power, while simultaneously starting up a diesel generator to ensure longer-term power supply once operating parameters have been reached.
Advantages of C&I Energy Storage Systems for Backup Power Supply
The use of C&I energy storage systems for backup power supply offers numerous advantages over conventional solutions. First and foremost is the immediate response time without any noticeable interruption, which is particularly crucial for sensitive production processes, IT infrastructures, or medical facilities. Modern battery systems can provide full power in less than 20 milliseconds – significantly faster than any diesel generator.
Another key advantage is the high voltage quality, which is ensured by the precisely controllable power electronics. Unlike rotating systems such as diesel generators, battery storage systems can provide a constant frequency and voltage without fluctuations. This is particularly important for sensitive electronic devices and control systems.
Furthermore, C&I storage systems are characterized by their quiet and emission-free operation. While diesel generators generate considerable noise and emit exhaust gases, battery storage systems operate completely silently and without local emissions. This also makes them suitable for use in areas where noise or exhaust gases would be problematic, such as office buildings, hospitals, or data centers in densely populated areas.
A key economic advantage is the multifunctionality of modern C&I storage systems. While diesel generators are only used in emergencies and otherwise remain unused, battery storage systems can be used for other tasks during normal operation, such as self-consumption optimization, peak load management, or grid services. This multiple use significantly improves economic efficiency, as the investment generates continuous returns and does not simply serve as "insurance" for emergencies.
Emergency power supply using C&I energy storage systems
Power supply reliability is crucial for businesses and industrial plants. Even short power outages can cause significant financial losses, interrupt production processes, and even pose security risks in critical infrastructures. Commercial & Industrial (C&I) energy storage systems have established themselves in recent years as a flexible and efficient solution for backup power supply and offer numerous advantages over conventional systems.
Basics of Backup Power Supply
Backup power supply refers to systems that provide power to critical or selected consumers in the event of a failure or disruption of the regular grid supply. Traditionally, diesel generators were primarily used for this purpose, but these are associated with start-up delays, maintenance costs, and environmental impacts. C&I energy storage systems offer a modern alternative with immediate response time and the ability to perform other functions during normal operation.
Backup power supply can take various forms depending on the requirements profile. With an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), the system switches to the backup power source without any delay, while with an emergency power supply, short interruptions lasting a few seconds can be tolerated. C&I storage systems are particularly suitable for implementing UPS systems because they can respond with virtually no delay.
How C&I energy storage systems work in backup power supply
A C&I energy storage system for backup power supply typically consists of several core components: the battery units, the power electronics, the battery management system, and the higher-level control system. During normal operation, the battery storage system is maintained at a defined charge level so that it can immediately resume power supply in the event of a grid failure. Highly sophisticated systems feature grid monitoring that continuously analyzes parameters such as voltage, frequency, and grid quality.
When a grid fault is detected, the system switches to island operation within milliseconds. The connection to the public grid is disconnected, and the loads are supplied from the battery storage system. The power electronics convert the direct current from the battery into grid-compliant alternating current. Modern systems are capable of ensuring high voltage quality, often even better than that of the regular grid.
The bridging time depends on the dimensioning of the storage system and the load. Typical systems are designed for bridging times ranging from 15 minutes to several hours. For longer outages, hybrid solutions are often implemented, in which the battery storage system provides immediate bridging power, while simultaneously starting up a diesel generator to ensure longer-term power supply once operating parameters have been reached.
Advantages of C&I Energy Storage Systems for Backup Power Supply
The use of C&I energy storage systems for backup power supply offers numerous advantages over conventional solutions. First and foremost is the immediate response time without any noticeable interruption, which is particularly crucial for sensitive production processes, IT infrastructures, or medical facilities. Modern battery systems can provide full power in less than 20 milliseconds – significantly faster than any diesel generator.
Another key advantage is the high voltage quality, which is ensured by the precisely controllable power electronics. Unlike rotating systems such as diesel generators, battery storage systems can provide a constant frequency and voltage without fluctuations. This is particularly important for sensitive electronic devices and control systems.
Furthermore, C&I storage systems are characterized by their quiet and emission-free operation. While diesel generators generate considerable noise and emit exhaust gases, battery storage systems operate completely silently and without local emissions. This also makes them suitable for use in areas where noise or exhaust gases would be problematic, such as office buildings, hospitals, or data centers in densely populated areas.
A key economic advantage is the multifunctionality of modern C&I storage systems. While diesel generators are only used in emergencies and otherwise remain unused, battery storage systems can be used for other tasks during normal operation, such as self-consumption optimization, peak load management, or grid services. This multiple use significantly improves profitability, as the investment continuously generates income and does not just serve as "insurance" in case of emergency.
Dimensioning and Planning
The correct dimensioning of a C&I energy storage system for backup power requires a careful analysis of the specific requirements and conditions. The first step is to identify the critical loads that must continue to be supplied in the event of a grid failure. Prioritization is often performed to reduce the required storage capacity and improve economic efficiency.
The system's power dimensioning is based on the maximum peak load of the loads to be supplied, typically with a safety margin of 20-30%. Capacity dimensioning depends on the desired backup duration and also takes into account factors such as the usable deep discharge of the batteries and their aging over their service life. Modern planning tools enable precise simulation of various scenarios and help with system optimization.
The planning also includes integration into the existing infrastructure. This includes the connection to the main distribution board, the installation of switching devices, and integration into the higher-level building management system. Another important issue is the scalability of the system to respond to future expansions or changing requirements.
Technical Aspects and Battery Technologies
Various battery technologies are used for backup power supply, selected depending on the requirements profile. Lithium-ion batteries have established themselves as the leading technology due to their high energy density, fast response time, and long service life. For applications with high performance requirements and short bridging times, lithium titanate oxide (LTO) or lithium iron phosphate (LFP) are often used, offering particularly high cycle stability and safety.
The battery management system (BMS) plays a crucial role in the reliability and service life of the system. It continuously monitors parameters such as voltage, temperature, and state of charge of each cell, ensuring optimal and safe operation. Advanced BMSs can also predict the health of the batteries and provide early warning of potential problems.
The power electronics include powerful inverters that convert the direct current from the batteries into grid-compliant alternating current. Modern systems offer features such as black start capability, active grid support, and the ability to form microgrids. By integrating communication interfaces, they can be seamlessly integrated into higher-level control systems.
Economic Considerations
The economic evaluation of C&I energy storage systems for backup power supply must consider various aspects. In addition to the investment costs for batteries, power electronics, and installation, the operating costs for maintenance, monitoring, and possible battery replacement must also be considered. These are generally significantly lower than with conventional diesel generators because there are fewer moving parts and no fuel is required.
The real economic advantage, however, comes from avoiding downtime costs and the multiple use of the system. Downtime costs can vary considerably depending on the industry and company, from a few thousand euros per hour in medium-sized production facilities to several hundred thousand euros in data centers or semiconductor factories. These costs are minimized by a reliable and uninterruptible power supply.
The multifunctionality of modern C&I storage systems can generate additional revenue or savings. During normal operation, the system can be used to optimize self-consumption, reduce peak loads, or participate in the balancing energy market. These additional benefits significantly improve economic efficiency and lead to typical payback periods of 4-7 years, depending on the application profile and regulatory framework.
Dimensioning and Planning
The correct dimensioning of a C&I energy storage system for backup power requires a careful analysis of the specific requirements and conditions. The first step is to identify the critical loads that must continue to be supplied in the event of a grid failure. Prioritization is often performed to reduce the required storage capacity and improve economic efficiency.
The system's power dimensioning is based on the maximum peak load of the loads to be supplied, typically with a safety margin of 20-30%. Capacity dimensioning depends on the desired backup duration and also takes into account factors such as the usable deep discharge of the batteries and their aging over their service life. Modern planning tools enable precise simulation of various scenarios and help with system optimization.
The planning also includes integration into the existing infrastructure. This includes the connection to the main distribution board, the installation of switching devices, and integration into the higher-level building management system. Another important issue is the scalability of the system to respond to future expansions or changing requirements.
Technical Aspects and Battery Technologies
Various battery technologies are used for backup power supply, selected depending on the requirements profile. Lithium-ion batteries have established themselves as the leading technology due to their high energy density, fast response time, and long service life. For applications with high performance requirements and short backup times, lithium titanate oxide (LTO) or lithium iron phosphate (LFP) are often used, offering particularly high cycle stability and safety.
The battery management system (BMS) plays a crucial role in the reliability and service life of the system. It continuously monitors parameters such as voltage, temperature, and state of charge of each cell, ensuring optimal and safe operation. Advanced BMS systems can also predict the health of the batteries and provide early warning of potential problems.
The power electronics include powerful inverters that convert the direct current from the batteries into grid-compliant alternating current. Modern systems offer features such as black start capability, active grid support, and the ability to form microgrids. By integrating communication interfaces, they can be seamlessly integrated into higher-level control systems.
Economic Considerations
The economic evaluation of C&I energy storage systems for backup power supply must consider various aspects. In addition to the investment costs for batteries, power electronics, and installation, the operating costs for maintenance, monitoring, and possible battery replacement must also be calculated. These are generally significantly lower than those of conventional diesel generators, as there are fewer moving parts and no fuel is required.
The real economic advantage, however, comes from avoiding downtime costs and enabling multiple use of the system. Downtime costs can vary considerably depending on the industry and company, from a few thousand euros per hour in medium-sized manufacturing facilities to several hundred thousand euros in data centers or semiconductor factories. These costs are minimized by a reliable and uninterrupted power supply.
The multifunctionality of modern C&I storage systems can generate additional revenue or savings. During normal operation, the system can be used to optimize self-consumption, reduce peak loads, or participate in the balancing energy market. These additional benefits significantly improve economic efficiency and lead to typical payback periods of 4-7 years, depending on the application profile and regulatory framework.
Practical Examples
A vivid example of the successful use of C&I energy storage systems for backup power supply can be found in a medium-sized pharmaceutical company. A 500 kWh / 250 kW battery storage system was installed here, which can supply critical production facilities for up to two hours in the event of a grid failure. This corresponds to the time required to shut down production processes in a controlled manner and secure sensitive materials. During normal operation, the storage system serves to optimize the company's own consumption of the PV system and reduce peak loads.
Another example is a data center that uses a 1 MWh / 1 MW battery storage system as the first stage of its backup power supply. The storage system can supply the entire IT infrastructure for 30 minutes, which provides sufficient time to start up the diesel generators and bring them up to full load. This combination increases reliability while reducing fuel consumption, as generators no longer need to run in standby mode.
Future Perspectives
The future of backup power with C&I energy storage systems will be shaped by several trends. Technological advances in batteries are leading to higher energy densities, longer service lives, and decreasing costs, further improving their economic attractiveness. At the same time, more advanced control algorithms are being developed that enable even more precise forecasting and optimization.
An important trend is the integration of backup power into local microgrids, which can continue to operate stably even in the event of a larger grid failure. This involves connecting generators (e.g., PV systems), storage systems, and consumers in an intelligent system that can operate autonomously. This increases resilience to large-scale grid outages and enables more efficient use of available resources.
Combining these with other technologies, such as fuel cells or hydrogen storage systems for longer bridging periods, will also become increasingly important. The battery storage system provides immediate response, while the hydrogen systems, which offer significantly higher energy density, step in for longer outages.
Conclusion
C&I energy storage systems offer a modern and efficient solution for backup power supply in businesses and industrial plants. Their immediate response time, high voltage quality, and zero emissions during operation mean they outperform conventional systems in many aspects. The decisive economic advantage lies in its multifunctionality, which allows the investment to be reserved not only for emergencies but also to be used profitably during normal operations.
With the advancement of technological development and continued decline in battery costs, the importance of C&I storage systems for backup power supply will increase in the future. Companies that invest in this technology early can not only increase their security of supply but also realize economic benefits and contribute to a sustainable energy supply.
Practical Examples
A vivid example of the successful use of C&I energy storage systems for backup power supply can be found in a medium-sized pharmaceutical company. A 500 kWh / 250 kW battery storage system was installed here, which can supply critical production facilities for up to two hours in the event of a grid failure. This corresponds to the time required to shut down production processes in a controlled manner and secure sensitive materials. During normal operation, the storage system serves to optimize the company's own consumption of the PV system and reduce peak loads.
Another example is a data center that uses a 1 MWh / 1 MW battery storage system as the first stage of its backup power supply. The storage system can supply the entire IT infrastructure for 30 minutes, providing sufficient time to ramp up the diesel generators and bring them up to full load. This combination increases reliability while reducing fuel consumption, as the generators no longer have to run in standby mode.
Future Perspectives
The future of backup power supply with C&I energy storage systems will be shaped by several trends. Technological advances in batteries are leading to higher energy densities, longer service lives, and decreasing costs, further improving their economic attractiveness. At the same time, more advanced control algorithms are being developed that enable even more precise forecasting and optimization.
An important trend is the integration of backup power supplies into local microgrids, which can continue to operate reliably even in the event of a larger grid failure. This involves networking generators (e.g., PV systems), storage systems, and consumers in an intelligent system that can operate autonomously. This increases resilience to large-scale grid outages and enables more efficient use of available resources.
Combining these with other technologies, such as fuel cells or hydrogen storage systems for longer bridging periods, will also become increasingly important. The battery storage system provides immediate response, while the hydrogen systems, which offer significantly higher energy density, step in for longer outages.
Conclusion
C&I energy storage systems offer a modern and efficient solution for backup power supply in businesses and industrial plants. With their immediate response time, high voltage quality, and zero emissions during operation, they outperform conventional systems in many aspects. The decisive economic advantage lies in its multifunctionality, which allows the investment to be reserved not only for emergencies but also to be used profitably during normal operations.
With the advancement of technological development and continued decline in battery costs, the importance of C&I storage systems for backup power supply will increase in the future. Companies that invest in this technology early can not only increase their security of supply but also realize economic benefits and contribute to a sustainable energy supply.