Session: 10-01: Photovoltaic, Photovoltaic-Thermal, and Electrochemical Technologies I

Paper Number: 156786

156786 - Bridging the Gap Between Techno-Economic and Environmental: Towards an Integrated Modeling Tool for Battery Energy Storage Systems 

Abstract: 

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) are rapidly gaining traction as a critical component of the clean energy transition. Despite their promise, optimising BESS installation and operation requires navigating a complex web of techno-economic, techno-environmental, and life cycle considerations. Traditional modelling approaches often fall short, limited in their focus and “siloed” by their ability to capture a holistic full picture.

This research aims to break down these barriers by introducing a novel modelling toolkit that seamlessly integrates techno-economic, techno-environmental, and life cycle impact assessment. By integrating different optimisation and generalisation methods, the toolkit offers a granular approach that accounts for the unique characteristics of different battery chemistries, operating conditions, and degradation mechanisms.

Our toolkit empowers users to:

Quantify the Triple Bottom Line: Evaluate BESS's economic viability, environmental footprint, and life cycle impacts, providing a holistic view of its sustainability performance.

Optimize Across Multiple Dimensions: Explore trade-offs between cost, performance, and environmental impact, identifying optimal BESS configurations for specific applications and policy contexts.

Uncover Hidden Costs and Benefits: Delve into detailed cost and footprint breakdowns, revealing hidden factors that can influence decision-making.

Embrace Methodological Diversity: Utilise a rich suite of analytical methods, including life cycle assessment, techno-economic analysis, sensitivity analysis, and optimization algorithms, to gain a comprehensive understanding of BESS performance.

This integrated toolkit is a game-changer for researchers, engineers, and developers seeking to:

Design high-performing BESS: Select the most suitable battery chemistry, size, and configuration for specific applications, maximising both performance and sustainability.

Develop robust control strategies: Optimize BESS operation to minimise degradation, extend lifespan, and enhance overall efficiency.

Inform policy decisions: Provide policymakers with the data and insights needed to develop effective incentives and regulations that drive BESS adoption and accelerate the clean energy transition.

To demonstrate the versatility and applicability of our toolkit, we present two compelling case studies: one showcasing BESS optimisation for a residential community in Sweden and another focusing on grid-scale BESS integration in Texas, USA. These case studies highlight the toolkit's ability to address diverse BESS applications, policy contexts, and geographical considerations, providing tangible examples of its real-world impact. Furthermore, the case studies highlight a decision-making context comprising different stakeholders and the importance of this being reflected in selected key performance indicators for system design and optimisation.

We aim to present the first version of this methodology-based tool and announce the next steps in getting to open-source publication for the widespread harnessing of this innovative tool. Together, we can unlock the full potential of BESS and create a truly sustainable energy future.

Presenting Author: Luka Smajila KTH - Royal Institute of Technology

Presenting Author Biography: Luka is a highly motivated and passionate individual who combines a strong background in chemical and energy engineering with a dedication to exploring sustainable solutions for a better future. With a BSc in Chemical Engineering from University of Ljubljana and an MSc in Energy Engineering from a double masters in Instituto Superior Tecnico Lisbon and Uppsala University, Luka brings a wealth of expertise to his engagements. Currently as a PhD candidate in Environmental modelling of energy storage systems focusing on understanding the interactions and integration of these systems in different grids, with the ultimate goal of finding ways to build cleaner, more efficient infrastructure that can improve our overall prosperity.