The main regulatory barriers to energy storage interconnection primarily stem from outdated or unclear interconnection rules and processes that were originally designed without energy storage in mind. Key barriers include:
- Lack of clear inclusion and definition of energy storage in interconnection rules: Most existing distributed energy resource (DER) interconnection procedures do not explicitly define energy storage, its operating schedule, operating profile, or the specific characteristics of power control systems (PCS). This leads to confusion and inconsistent application of rules for energy storage projects. Updating these rules to clearly define these elements is critical.
- Absence of standardized and trusted export controls: Current interconnection procedures often lack a standardized list of acceptable export control methods that utilities and customers can rely on. Including PCS as an approved export control method and recognizing its limits as the enforceable export capacity would streamline approvals and enhance system safety and reliability.
- Overestimation of grid impacts from non-exporting or limited-exporting storage systems: Utilities frequently overestimate the impact of energy storage systems that do not export power or export very little, leading to unnecessary restrictions or complex studies. Accurately assessing these grid impacts could allow for greater deployment of storage by reducing the burden of interconnection studies and costs.
- Lengthy, complex, and unclear interconnection processes: Across many U.S. states, processes remain slow and complicated due to unclear policies and procedural inefficiencies. This complexity increases time and costs for applicants, slowing deployment of storage resources.
These regulatory barriers have been identified by initiatives such as the BATRIES project led by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) along with partners like the Energy Storage Association and the Solar Energy Industries Association. The project aims to develop nationally applicable toolkits and solutions to reform regulatory frameworks, reduce interconnection costs and delays, and safely integrate energy storage on the distribution grid.
In summary, the main regulatory barriers are the lack of clear, standardized, and storage-specific interconnection definitions, controls, and procedures, combined with slow and complex processes that do not accurately reflect the capabilities and grid impacts of modern energy storage systems. Addressing these barriers is essential to accelerating energy storage deployment and enabling its critical role in a clean energy future.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-are-the-main-regulatory-barriers-to-energy-storage-interconnection/
