Utility-scale batteries are most commonly paired with renewable energy sources that are variable and intermittent, specifically:
- Solar power: Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are frequently co-located with large battery storage. The batteries store excess solar energy generated during sunny periods and discharge it when sunlight is insufficient or demand is high. This pairing optimizes the use of solar energy, reducing curtailment and improving grid reliability.
- Wind power: Wind farms are also regularly paired with utility-scale batteries. Since wind generation depends on variable weather conditions, batteries store surplus wind power generated during windy periods and supply energy when wind speeds drop or during peak demand times. This helps smooth out the intermittent supply characteristic of wind energy.
These two renewable sources—solar and wind—are the primary types paired with utility-scale battery systems due to their abundance, intermittency, and the complementary benefits battery storage provides in balancing supply and demand on the grid.
Additional details include:
- Batteries provide multiple grid services beyond energy shifting, including frequency regulation, transmission and distribution support, and ancillary grid services.
- Typical utility-scale batteries have about four hours of storage, which is suitable for daily cycling but can be less effective during prolonged supply shortages. Efforts to develop longer-duration storage are ongoing.
- Lithium-ion technology is the most prevalent type of battery used at utility scale due to its maturity and cost-effectiveness.
In summary, utility-scale batteries are typically paired with solar photovoltaic and wind power plants to enhance grid stability, maximize renewable utilization, and provide flexible, reliable electricity supply.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-types-of-renewable-energy-sources-are-typically-paired-with-utility-scale-batteries/
