Integrating Peak Shaving with Renewable Energy Sources
Yes, peak shaving can be effectively integrated with renewable energy sources like solar or wind. This integration offers several benefits, including balancing energy supply and demand, reducing grid reliance, and optimizing energy costs.
How It Works
- Energy Storage Systems (ESS): During periods of high solar or wind energy generation, excess energy is stored in battery energy storage systems (BESS). This stored energy can then be discharged during peak demand periods, reducing the need for grid electricity and thus “shaving the peak” of demand.
- Renewable Energy Balance: Solar and wind power are intermittent sources; their output varies with weather conditions. Peak shaving helps balance these fluctuations by using stored energy during low renewable energy output periods. This ensures a stable and reliable power supply to meet demand.
- Cost Savings: By utilizing stored renewable energy during peak times, businesses can avoid high demand charges that are often based on the highest power consumption during a billing cycle. This can significantly reduce electricity bills and make renewable energy more economically viable.
- Grid Stability: Peak shaving with renewable energy integration contributes to grid stability by reducing strain on the grid during peak periods. It allows for more flexible management of energy distribution, which is crucial as renewable energy becomes a larger share of the global energy mix.
Benefits
- Financial Savings: Reduces demand charges and energy costs.
- Increased Reliability: Provides backup power during outages and ensures stable energy supply.
- Environmental Benefits: Encourages the use of renewable energy sources.
Examples of successful integration include:
- Solar with Battery Storage: Businesses can store excess solar energy during the day and use it during peak evening hours.
- Wind Power Systems: Similar to solar, wind energy can be stored and used when demand is high or when wind output is low.
This approach not only supports grid resilience but also helps move towards a more sustainable energy future by optimizing the use of renewable energy sources.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/can-peak-shaving-be-integrated-with-renewable-energy-sources-like-solar-or-wind/
