Do energy storage systems ensure a safe and stable energy supply?

As a consequence, to guarantee a safe and stable energy supply, faster and larger energy availability in the system is needed. This survey paper aims at providing an overview of the role of energy storage systems (ESS) to ensure the energy supply in future energy grids.

What is an energy storage system?

Energy storage systems are typically defined as either AC or DC coupled systems. This is simply the point of connection for the energy storage system in relation to the electrical grid or other equipment. For AC (alternating current) coupled systems, the batteries are connected to the part of the grid that has AC or alternating current.

What is a battery energy storage system?

Battery energy storage systems can perform, among others, the following functions: Provide the flexibility needed to increase the level of variable solar and wind energy that can be accommodated on the grid. Help provide back-up power during emergencies like blackouts from storms, equipment failures, or accidents.

Why do we need energy storage systems?

Growing concerns about the use of fossil fuels and greater demand for a cleaner, more eficient, and more resilient energy grid has led to the use of energy storage systems (ESS), and that use has increased substantially over the past decade.

Why do energy storage systems need a DC connection?

DC connection The majority of energy storage systems are based on DC systems (e.g., batteries, supercapacitors, fuel cells). For this reason, connecting in parallel at DC level more storage technologies allows to save an AC/DC conversion stage, and thus improve the system efficiency and reduce costs.

Why should energy storage systems be tested?

The advantages of such testing setup are clear: the energy storage systems can be tested under realistic conditions, taking into account the grid complexity. This is particularly important when dynamic studies are involved.