What is a battery energy storage system (BESS)?

Stacks of batteries sit inside a container at a battery energy storage system (BESS) site on the outskirts of Fort Worth, Texas. Run by Eolian Energy, the facility is supplementing the power capacity of the city's electricity grid. (Jill English/CBC)

Are China-based battery energy storage systems becoming more popular?

The last 12-18 months have seen the emergence of more China-based battery energy storage system (BESS) manufacturers and system integrators on the global stage, all selling 20-foot, 5MWh container products (or higher, like CATL’s ‘zero-degradation’ Tener ).

How are battery storage systems transforming Texas?

Across Texas, fenced lots of shipping-like containers are popping up amid the oil derricks and wind turbines that have defined the landscape. These battery storage systems are revolutionizing the way power is produced and distributed throughout the state, setting an example for other jurisdictions.

Are battery energy storage systems essential for modern energy grids?

The firm argues that battery energy storage systems are essential for modern energy grids, providing “critical services” such as grid balancing, renewable energy storage and fast-response capabilities to stabilise supply and demand.

Can battery energy storage help Scotland achieve net-zero ambitions?

Helen Melone, head of heat and solar at Scottish Renewables, said: “As the number of renewables projects continue to grow and Scotland generates more and more renewable energy, battery energy storage systems will play a crucial role in supporting the country’s net-zero ambitions and providing a more sustainable future.”

Are battery energy storage systems the key to grid resilience?

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) store and hold energy until it's needed, but they are proving to be key to solving grid capacity and resilience issues, as energy demand skyrockets and old infrastructure lags behind.