The “next big thing” in private energy management will be batteries. This trend has begun to impact the residential solar profession and use of batteries at commercial and agricultural facilities is not far behind. Many people wonder if it is worth the expense of batteries. The short answer is “probably not” but as time is passing this answer is starting to become more complex and also needs evaluation on a case by case basis.
Here are the battery advantages:
1. Allows for rate-shifting. The owner can use off-peak or self-generated energy and power to avoid on-peak energy or power imports when needed.
2. Allows for demand response shifting (commercial and agricultural assets only). Allows the battery to supply voltage inputs in high volume for short or medium term period to reduce or eliminate the demand charges that utilities apply to business rates.
3. Allows for off-grid operation. If the grid service is interrupted, operations can continue.
4. Allows for grid defection. Certain systems can provide all the power and energy needed and can stop grid supply, saving big money in the long run.
In ten years, most businesses and homes will have some level of energy storage on site. This is a rapidly evolving area of renewable energy and works great with solar energy.
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