Battery Energy Storage System for Building Integrated Photovoltaic Applications

Abstract

Human pursuits’ daily energy needs are consistent; however, renewable energy sources are intermittent in nature.  Thus, an energy storage system is required to bridge the generation-demand gap.  Electrical energy storage (EES) is a system that converts electrical energy into a form that can be easily stored in various devices and converted back into electrical energy as needed.  The battery energy storage system (BESS) is one of the most well-known and promising EES technologies for storing renewable energy.  Today, various BESS types are in use; some are established technology, while others are still in R&D. The selection of BESS capacity for building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems necessitates a trade-off between critical criteria, including power vs. energy, design voltage, and operating temperature.  This research analyzed various BESS technologies and presented optimal capacity selection and design criteria.  Hence, the best BESS design approach takes into account climatic data, PV panel specifications, and budget constraints.  While BESS technology varies depending on project requirements and other considerations, lithium-ion batteries are the most commonly used due to their high energy density, efficiency, and extended cycle life.  For cost-sensitive BIPV systems, lead-acid batteries are preferred due to their low capital cost, technological maturity, and relatively good cycle efficiency.  Thus, the correct quantity of batteries in a BESS bank is determined by energy storage goals, BESS type and size, and service load.  Finally, the paper concluded with recommendations for best practices for BESS design, appropriate operation, and maintenance conditions for Nigeria’s prevalent BESS technology for BIPV applications