A leading UK construction company recently made a strategic shift from diesel generators to Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) across multiple project sites. The results?
• 2,365 tonnes of CO₂ emissions avoided • 902,737 liters of diesel fuel saved • £1,110,366 in fuel cost reductions • Enhanced operational efficiency with reduced maintenance needs
The advantages of BESS for this company include improved operational efficiency, significant emissions reduction, and substantial cost savings. This transition aligns with the company’s broader strategy to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. By adopting cleaner energy solutions, they not only met sustainability goals but also realized significant financial savings.
The units, designed specifically for construction sites, are capable of meeting the demanding energy needs of large-scale projects. Each unit is powered by grid electricity, reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions, and requires no refueling or constant maintenance. Detailed monthly reports, enabling real-time monitoring and data-driven decision-making are available.
This transition demonstrates the ability of BESS to enhance sustainability and manage energy use effectively on construction sites. This case study exemplifies how embracing BESS technology can lead to substantial environmental and financial benefits. As the construction industry continues to evolve, integrating sustainable energy solutions like BESS is becoming increasingly essential for achieving both operational efficiency and sustainability objectives. Around the world, companies are adopting BESS to support the global shift toward cleaner, more resilient energy systems.
Battery Storage System Design
The design of battery storage systems is fundamental to unlocking the full potential of battery energy storage systems (BESS) in today’s rapidly evolving energy landscape. A well-engineered battery storage system not only maximizes energy storage capacity and efficiency but also plays a crucial role in minimizing operational costs and ensuring safety across a range of applications, from construction sites to commercial facilities.
At the heart of every effective energy storage system is a careful selection and configuration of battery technologies. Lithium-ion batteries are widely favored for their high energy density and cost-effectiveness, making them the backbone of most modern battery storage systems. However, their use requires meticulous attention to safety, as improper design or management can lead to risks such as thermal runaway or even battery fire. To address these challenges, system designers implement robust electrical and thermal management solutions, along with advanced control and monitoring systems that provide real-time data on battery performance and health.
Key considerations in battery storage system design include determining the optimal energy storage capacity—measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh)—to meet the specific needs of a project. Battery storage capacity, often measured in ampere-hours (Ah), must be matched to the expected load and duration of use, ensuring the system can reliably store and deliver electricity when needed. Power output, or the rate at which energy can be charged or discharged (measured in kilowatts), is another critical factor, especially for applications like peak shaving, where the goal is to reduce demand on the power grid during periods of high consumption.
Efficiency is also a top priority, as energy losses during charging and discharging can impact both operational costs and environmental benefits. Modern battery storage systems are designed to minimize these losses, often achieving high round-trip efficiencies that make them attractive for both grid-scale and behind-the-meter installations.
Safety remains a central concern, particularly with the increasing deployment of large-scale battery storage facilities. Adherence to established fire codes and safety standards—such as NFPA 855 and IEC 62933—is essential to protect both people and infrastructure. These standards guide the installation, operation, and maintenance of energy storage systems, helping to mitigate risks associated with battery fires, chain reactions, and other hazards.
Cost considerations extend beyond the initial investment in batteries and equipment. Developers must also account for ongoing maintenance, system upgrades, and the integration of renewable energy sources like solar panels or wind turbines, which can further enhance the value and sustainability of battery storage systems.
Recent years have seen a surge in the adoption of battery storage technologies across commercial and industrial sectors, driven by falling costs and the growing need to support renewable energy sources. According to the American Clean Power Association, the energy storage market is poised for significant growth in the next few years, as businesses and utilities seek reliable solutions to balance supply and demand on increasingly complex electrical grids.
To keep pace with this growth, the industry is investing in research and innovation. New battery chemistries, improved monitoring systems, and advanced safety features are being developed to boost reliability and reduce risks. For example, some systems now include real-time thermal monitoring and predictive analytics to detect early signs of overheating or potential failure, helping to prevent incidents before they escalate.
As battery storage system design continues to evolve, it is clear that a thoughtful, standards-driven approach is essential for maximizing the benefits of battery energy storage while protecting people, property, and the environment. For those interested in learning more, resources such as the National Fire Protection Association’s NFPA 855, the International Electrotechnical Commission’s IEC 62933, and the American Clean Power Association’s Energy Storage Market Report offer valuable guidance on best practices and emerging trends in the field.
