08 Sep 2023 Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
This article covers “Daily Current Affairs” and the topic details “Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)”. The topic “Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)” has relevance in the “Science and Technology” section of the UPSC CSE exam.
For Prelims:
What is Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)?
What are its advantages and applications?
For Mains:
GS3: Science and Technology
Why in the news?
In a significant development, the government has approved ₹3,760 crore in viability gap funding (VGF) to support establishing a 4,000 MWh battery energy storage system nationwide.
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
- Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are cutting-edge energy storage solutions that allow energy from renewable sources like solar and wind to be stored and released when it is most needed.
- These systems typically comprise one or more rechargeable batteries and serve multiple purposes, including grid stabilisation and backup power provision.
- Lithium-ion batteries used in mobile phones and electric vehicles are currently the prevailing storage technology for large-scale installations.
Advantages of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
- Enhanced Flexibility: BESS offers increased flexibility in managing energy resources and distribution.
- Improved Scalability: BESS solutions can be easily scaled to meet varying energy demands.
- Cost Efficiency: BESS solutions are more cost-effective than conventional grid storage methods.
- Superior Efficiency: BESS systems are known for their high energy conversion efficiency.
Applications of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
- Renewable Energy Production
- Conventional Thermal Power Plants
- Grid Operations
- Industrial Electricity Consumers
- Offshore Drilling Platforms and Vessels
New developments in Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
- Compressed air energy storage: These systems are typically situated within spacious chambers, where surplus power is employed to compress air for subsequent storage. When energy is required, the compressed air is released, driving an air turbine to generate electricity.
- Mechanical gravity energy storage: This approach uses energy to elevate a tower’s concrete blocks. When power is needed, the concrete blocks are lowered, harnessing the force of gravity to generate electricity.
- Flow batteries: In these batteries, which effectively function as rechargeable fuel cells, chemical energy is provided by two chemical components dissolved in liquids within the system, separated by a membrane.
More about the news:
The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister, approves the Scheme for Viability Gap Funding (VGF) to develop Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). This scheme aims to develop 4,000 MWh of BESS projects by 2030-31 with up to 40% of the capital cost provided as VGF support.
- Enhancing Viability of Battery Storage Systems: The initiative is expected to reduce the cost of battery storage systems, making them more economically viable.
- Levelized Cost of Storage (LCoS): The scheme aims to achieve a Levelized Cost of Storage (LCoS) ranging from ₹5.50 to ₹6.60 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), making stored renewable energy an attractive option for managing peak power demand nationwide.
- Benefits for Power Distribution Companies: To ensure broad benefits, a minimum of 85% of BESS project capacity will be allocated to power distribution companies (DISCOMS).
By promoting renewable energy and battery storage adoption, the government aims to create a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future for all citizens.
Yojna daily current affairs eng med 8th Sep 2023
Q1. With reference to Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), consider the following statements:
- Lead-acid batteries are the most widely used storage technology for large-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS).
- Traditional grid storage methods are more economical than battery energy storage systems (BESS).
- Battery energy storage systems (BESS) are known for their high efficiency in converting energy.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) None
Answer: (c)
Q2. Consider the following:
- Conventional Thermal Power Plants
- Industrial Electricity Consumers
- Offshore Drilling Platforms and Vessels
- Short-term backup power during outages.
How many of the abovementioned are possible applications for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) Only three
(d) All Four
Answer: (d)
Q3. Energy storage technologies, such as Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), are gaining prominence in the global energy landscape due to their potential to enhance grid stability and facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources. Discuss.
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