A Fresh Alternative in Clean Energy: User-Side Energy Storage
User-side energy storage refers to energy storage systems installed on the user side (such as households, enterprises, factories, etc.) to store, manage, and dispatch the power demand and supply on the user side. User-side energy storage systems usually include battery energy storage, supercapacitor energy storage, thermal storage systems, etc.
Configuring energy storage systems on the user side has many advantages and a wide range of application scenarios. Also, it plays a positive role in promoting the stable operation of the power grid.
Characteristics of user-side energy storage
1. The user-side energy storage system can save electricity costs. It stores electricity during low-power periods and releases electricity during peak periods, optimizing electricity prices and reducing users' electricity costs.
2. The user-side energy storage system improves power quality. It smoothes power loads, reduces load fluctuations, improves power quality, and ensures the normal operation of users' power equipment.
3. The user-side energy storage system improves emergency backup capabilities. As a backup power source, it provides emergency power support to users and ensures the power supply of key equipment when the power grid fails or power outages.
4. The user-side energy storage system reduces the pressure on the power grid. Load shifting minimizes the load on the power grid during peak hours, relieves the pressure on the power grid, and improves the stability and reliability of power grid operation.
5. The user-side energy storage system realizes autonomous energy management. It flexibly dispatches electricity according to its needs and prices to improve energy utilization efficiency.
6. The user-side energy storage system participates in power market transactions, such as the frequency regulation market and the standby market, provides flexible power dispatching services, and obtains market benefits.
User-side energy storage scenarios
1、Energy storage + charging station
The configuration of energy storage + charging station can not only get rid of environmental restrictions and be installed anywhere it is needed, which is more flexible than ordinary charging piles, but also the integration of photovoltaic storage and charging alleviates the impact of high-current charging of charging piles on the regional power grid during peak charging periods. On the other hand, it also brings very considerable profits to the charging station through the peak-valley price difference.
2、Energy Storage + Industrial and Commercial Park
Energy storage can be deployed in industrial and commercial parks with large electricity consumption and significant electricity price differences to smooth out peak loads, reduce the basic electricity capacity of the park, save electricity bills, and use the peak-valley price difference to reduce electricity costs. It can also provide emergency backup power for the factory area to meet the power supply needs of important loads. "Photovoltaic + energy storage" can also help the park implement clean production transformation and actively carry out low-carbon production practices.
3、Energy storage + 5G base station
The peak power of 5G base stations is 3-4 times that of 4G base stations, and the electricity demand has increased significantly. 5G base station storage uses intelligent peak shifting, charging during idle time, and discharging during busy times, which effectively solves the problem of insufficient city power hindering 5G construction. In addition, while providing 5G power supply backup, it can also be sent back to the power grid to participate in the peak and frequency regulation of the power grid in the form of auxiliary services, helping the safe operation of the power system, and achieving relatively good economic and social benefits.
4、Energy Storage + Data Center
Data centers consume a lot of energy and require an uninterrupted power supply. They also need air conditioning to control the temperature and ensure the operation of the machines. Energy storage systems connected to data centers can enhance the reliability of data center power supply and prevent accidental power outages from causing data loss. In addition, energy storage systems can improve the economic efficiency of data center power operations and achieve low-carbon energy conservation through mechanisms such as peak load shaving valley filling and capacity allocation.
5、Energy storage + distributed new energy
Distributed renewable energy built in industrial parks, public buildings, industrial and commercial plants, and other fields has the advantage of local consumption, but the peaks and valleys of electricity consumption in various fields are not synchronized with the fluctuating power generation of renewable energy. At this time, the energy storage system plays a role in balancing the two sides. When renewable energy power generation is abundant, the excess electricity that cannot be used is stored and then released to meet the load when there is a lack of wind and light. Therefore, the use of "peak shaving and valley filling" not only ensures the safety of the power grid but also improves the economic benefits of the electricity consumption side, making the energy storage system more valuable in the layout of distributed renewable energy.
6、Energy storage + microgrid:
In microgrids, energy storage systems are an important component that can continuously absorb energy and release it promptly to meet the large demand for electricity from users. As an energy buffer system in microgrids, energy storage systems can alleviate the overload of electricity on the grid, optimize the configuration of the grid system, maintain the complete and stable operation of the grid, and meet the electricity needs of different users.
User-side development trends
User-side energy storage systems play an important role in improving electricity efficiency, reducing electricity costs, and responding to changes in the electricity market. They apply to various user scenarios and promote the development of clean energy and smart electricity. With the continuous advancement of technology and the reduction of costs, the application of user-side energy storage systems will become more extensive. This trend will drive the energy system in a smarter and more efficient direction, laying the foundation for the future development of sustainable energy.
