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Battery energy storage can offer so much more than just backup power
There is hardly a business that can operate without electricity, right? Businesses need energy solutions beyond cost savings to ensure resilience and adaptability. Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), particularly when paired with solar energy, are emerging as critical assets for companies seeking stable energy, enhanced sustainability and lower costs.
As Christine Bombal, International Brand and Marketing Manager at RenEnergy, aptly states: “The integration of solar energy and BESS isn’t only about securing power, it’s about fundamentally shifting how energy is consumed and managed to drive both resilience and growth.”
She adds: “Interestingly, when we analyse our clients’ energy usage patterns, we find that there are still significant gaps in grid electricity supply – not because of loadshedding any longer, but other factors such as maintenance, vandalism and infrastructure challenges.”
Beyond Reliability: How BESS drives stability and cost control
Energy storage offers more than backup power. Let’s explore seven impactful ways that BESS transforms operations.
Energy cost savings: Storing excess solar energy for use during peak hours, when grid electricity costs are highest, cuts costs and makes energy budgeting more predictable – especially in the current environment where unmanageable electricity prices increase.
Time-of-use arbitrage: Even without solar, BESS brings cost benefits by storing lower-priced energy from the grid during off-peak periods when demand and costs are higher. This strategy, called time-of-use arbitrage, offers a smart approach to managing costs.
Enhanced energy security: Businesses regularly face electricity disruptions due to various causes. BESS provides on-demand backup power, allowing essential processes to continue, safeguarding operations from costly interruptions.
Overcoming grid capacity limitations: With insufficient infrastructure, new solar solutions may face connectivity challenges. BESS allows businesses to operate independently from these grid constraints.
Operational flexibility: Many industries, including manufacturing and logistics, require round-the-clock energy access, and BESS enables them to rely on stored solar energy when it’s most needed. This flexibility optimises efficiency, ensuring seamless operations at all hours.
Market competitiveness: Managing and reducing energy costs impacts a company’s bottom line and global competitiveness. Predictable energy costs help businesses respond quickly to market demands and focus on innovation without the uncertainty of rising power expenses.
Sustainability goals: Pressure from consumers, regulators and shareholders for sustainable practices is at an all-time high. By pairing solar energy with BESS, companies reduce their carbon footprint, stay ahead of potential future regulations and attract eco-conscious clients and investors.
Electrifying fleets and BESS: Helping to future-proof African businesses
The adoption of EVs within corporate fleets is starting to gain traction, marking an exciting shift across sectors. For industries, such as logistics and cold chain management, EVs not only represent an environmentally friendly alternative but also redefine how energy is managed.
Electric trucks, bikes, vans and even aircraft paired with solar-powered charging and BESS create an ecosystem that reduces grid reliance. The application of bespoke solar carports with EV charging capability will become a must-have for your business, as well as your customers and/or staff.
Bombal explains: “Electrification isn’t only about changing what powers our vehicles, it’s a shift in how we manage energy to build systems that are both economically and environmentally sustainable.”
Energy storage and EVs
Forward-thinking businesses poised to adopt battery storage systems and EV charging will gain a critical advantage in the evolving energy landscape. BESS supports cost control, resilience and hedging against energy fluctuations, building a stable foundation for growth and adaptability.
Capturing the essence of this transformation, Bombal states: “Investing in high-quality renewable energy solutions today sets the foundation for success tomorrow. However, choosing the right power partner is crucial. Solar investments should be built to endure – they must deliver consistent, optimal returns over time.”
With solar still a relatively young industry, Bombal warns it’s essential to look beyond the obvious factors such as component quality and warranties.
“Consider the integrity of the design and engineering, long-term maintenance support, the company’s track record, its financial stability and industry relationships.
“Opting for the lowest quotation may save now, but it often brings higher costs down the line.” ESI |
