Correctly planning energy storage systems on site

A new analysis tool for energy storage applications in production has arrived from the field of research: companies are able to evaluate the technical and economic efficiency of energy storage systems using the ESiP Analyzer developed at the Fraunhofer IWU.

With its ESiP Analyzer, the Chemnitz-based research institute has developed an analysis tool for energy storage applications in production (ESiP). The analysis tool makes it possible to evaluate potential energy storage system applications in factories from a technical and economical point of view. The aim is to highlight the potentials of energy storage systems with as little effort as possible, as well as to simplify the design and integration of energy storage systems. ESiP Analyzer’s central approaches are to lower power peaks at the machinery and factory level, as well as to provide interim storage of renewable energy.
The production industry is faced with the challenge of optimising its energy consumption and advancing the integration of renewable energies at the same time. When machines in production accelerate and brake frequently, this generates high, brief power peaks which demand large-scale electrical infrastructure and lead to losses under conditions of partial load. Energy storage systems offer huge potential for compensating for these brief load peaks. Furthermore, they make it possible to utilise renewable energies directly on the production site in a way that is optimised to meet requirements, creating a valuable time lag between energy generation and consumption. Until now, however, there was a shortage of tools to support planners in the potential analysis and design of such complex systems.

A variety of applications, from peak-shaving to PV storage

IWU reports that the new design and simulation tool also enables the precise simulation of further application cases, in addition to classic peak-shaving. They include the recovery of braking energy from drives in the DC intermediate circuit and the realisation of an uninterrupted power supply for critical production processes. The tool encompasses common energy storage technologies and various integration variants, while the Fraunhofer IWU’s rigorous practical knowledge of energy storage and the production technology is utilised at all times.

A holistic approach: Focus on design and operational management

One reported core feature of the tool is the availability of specific design processes for different application scenarios. Important operational factors, such as system efficiency and specific production parameters, are also said to have been included in the simulations. The aim is not only to support companies in selecting the right storage technology, but also in developing optimal operating strategies for efficient and economical use in the long term.
Source: Fraunhofer IWU