Understanding solar power battery energy storage system design

Renewable energy is the fastest-growing energy source in the world. Solar panels store solar energy for future use, such as generating electricity and cooking. Solar power battery energy storage system (BESS) design is becoming an essential form of energy storage.

Apart from homes for electricity and cooking, it has many other uses, including containerized BESS to protect them from external temperatures and as an energy provider.

In this article, we will understand the design of solar power battery energy storage systems and how they can be protected and managed with shipping container structures.

Define battery energy storage system

A BESS is an energy storage system that stores renewable energy, such as solar energy, in rechargeable batteries. This stored energy can be used when needed, like during power cuts or high demand for the sources. The attested and energy-efficient design makes it more reliable for future generations.

How can shipping containers protect BESS?

Containerized BESS (Battery Energy Storage System) is a huge battery-built-in storage container. These containers are designed to store renewable energy, such as solar energy, and use it when needed. BESS improves energy management, helps integrate renewable energy sources, and stabilizes power networks.

How to design a solar power BESS?

Many types and sizes of Battery Energy Storage Systems are based on the type of renewable energy stored. This complex system consists of hardware parts with low and high-level software. It includes:

• Battery: It includes cells that convert chemical energy into electrical energy. Inverters convert direct current from batteries to alternating current for use in other appliances.
• Battery control system: A battery management system supervises the condition of battery cells and ensures the battery system’s security. Monitoring the state of charge and health saves the battery from short circuits, fires, or other hazards.
• Energy management system (EMS): This system supervises and controls the energy flow within the batteries. It controls the work of BMS, PCS, and parts of BESS.

Types of BESS

Different Battery Energy Storage Systems are based on electrochemistry and battery technology. Now, we will discover the basic types of BESS:

• Lithium-ion batteries: These batteries consist of lithium cobalt oxide, lithium manganese oxide, lithium iron phosphate, lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC), and many more. They are mostly known for their long life and high energy density.
• Lead-acid batteries: These solar battery storage systems are traditional and cost-effective but less efficient than newer technologies. Valve-regulated lead acids are more suitable for power storage than their old versions.
• Flow batteries: These batteries of solar storage systems differ from others because energy is stored in liquid electrolytes rather than solid electrolytes. The most used battery type is a vanadium redox battery.
• Flywheels: These batteries store energy in the form of kinetic energy and are used as per need. FES systems are famous for durability, easy maintenance, and fast response time.

Advantages of using shipping containers for BESS

Many items are customized to use Battery Energy Storage System techniques for environmental and financial benefit. Let’s get an overview of why this BESS design is ideal for shipping containers:

Size: Different types and sizes of standard containers, be it 20 and 40ft, are suitable for the size of all the parts of BESS. They can easily support extensive technician tools for different works.

Flexibility: Shipping containers are mobile and easily transferrable from one place to another. They will prove very beneficial for disaster recovery systems, emergencies, or off-grid operations; their portability, fixed in solar containers, will make them easily accessible.

Customizable: As we all know, shipping containers can be customized according to expectations or needs; this is one of the reasons why BESS operators are considering containers as explosives. The temperature, openings, and interiors can be modified according to the requirements of the Battery Energy Storage System.

Environment-friendly: With approximately millions of containers circulated globally, repurposing these containers would be a step towards environmental protection. Using these containers as solar battery storage systems would be eco-friendly as shipping containers are environmentally sustainable.

Cost-efficient: A containerization solar Battery Energy Storage System would be cost-effective, as the used containers would be cheaper, and the cost of expensive high-enclosures would be minimized.

Improve safety and durability: Shipping containers are made of solid materials constructed to survive harsh weather conditions. Thus, they would protect BESS inside them from external conditions.

What are the best practices for managing energy storage in shipping containers?

Selecting and preparing site: It is very important to choose the right place for these containerized BESS. Consider factors such as the availability of natural resources, grid access, and weather conditions.

Insertion process: Be very careful while installing the BESS in different shipping containers, ensuring proper handling, accurate ventilation, and compliance with the regulations.

Merging existing energy systems: Integration with containerized infrastructure is crucial for the best results. Energy management systems and grid requirements must be aligned.

Monitoring and lifecycle management: Regular inspection and monitoring are needed to ensure a long life span and performance. Execute a detailed EMS to recover the issues.

Solar Power Battery Energy Storage System Design (BESS) in containers would benefit both containers and solar panels. Solar energy is a renewable energy source that can be stored through BESS, promoting sustainable and eco-friendly use of containers. Many leading energy leaders are considering this, as it would be cost-saving, eco-friendly, and valuable for consumers and buyers.

LOTUS Containers trades and manufactures shipping storage containers, whether used or new. You can use them for solar BESS designs and other purposes. Contact them worldwide to buy, sell, or rent new or used containers.