Commercial and Industrial (C&I) energy storage systems play a crucial role in maximizing the self-consumption rate of solar energy, reducing electricity expenses for industrial and commercial owners, and aiding in energy conservation and emission reduction efforts. These systems are categorized as user-side energy storage solutions, enabling enterprises to optimize their energy usage and become more sustainable.

There are two primary business models for operating C&I energy storage systems. In the first model, commercial and industrial users install the energy storage equipment themselves, resulting in direct electricity cost savings. However, these users have to bear the initial investment cost and annual maintenance expenses. The second model involves energy service companies assisting users in the installation process. These companies invest in constructing energy storage assets and are responsible for the operation and maintenance of the systems. Industrial and commercial users then pay energy service companies for their electricity costs.

The applications of user-side energy storage systems have expanded significantly, encompassing various scenarios such as charging and swapping stations, data centers, 5G base stations, port shore power, and heavy truck swapping. These systems have become essential in allowing these facilities to function efficiently while minimizing their environmental impact.

The structure of C&I energy storage systems typically involves separate Power Conditioning System (PCS) units and battery systems. The inverter boost unit consists of the PCS, grid-connected cabinets, and transformers. Containers housing the battery cabinets, confluence cabinets, and monitoring equipment provide independent power supply, lighting, temperature control, humidity control, fire protection, safety escape, and other automatic control and safety assurance units. Additionally, the power station requires a power system to provide self-consumption power for the energy storage unit and a booster station to facilitate grid connection.

Solar panels form a crucial component of C&I energy storage systems. Their design must meet the daily electricity consumption demand of the load under average weather conditions. This means that the power generated by the solar panels should match the load's annual electricity consumption. However, it is essential to consider that not all the power generated is converted into electricity consumption. Factors such as controller efficiency, machine loss, and battery pack loss during charging and discharging must be accounted for.

Given the relatively low response time requirements of C&I energy storage systems, energy-type batteries are commonly used due to their cost-effectiveness, cycle life, and response time. The primary task of the battery is to ensure uninterrupted power consumption when solar radiation is insufficient. The capacity of the battery pack can be designed according to the specific needs and conditions of each system, taking into account factors such as voltage requirements, energy time shifts, peak-valley arbitrage, and backup power for rainy days.

C&I energy storage inverters have a relatively simple function, primarily based on two-way conversion. They are smaller in size and easier to integrate with battery systems. The flexibility of these inverters allows for expansion based on future needs. With an ultra-wide voltage range of 150-750V, they can cater to various battery types such as lead-acid batteries, lithium batteries, and Lithium Iron Phosphate (LEP) batteries. In addition to basic converter functions, coupling functionality is crucial, including primary frequency regulation, fast dispatch of source, grid and load, and strong adaptability to achieve quick power response.

When selecting the PCS, considerations must be made for the load requirements. Loads are typically categorized as inductive or resistive. Inductive loads, such as motors found in central air conditioners, compressors, and cranes, have a starting power that is three to five times the rated power. Therefore, it is necessary to consider the starting power of these loads during off-grid operation at the design stage to ensure that the inverter's output power exceeds the load's power requirements. For applications with strict requirements, such as monitoring and communication stations, the total output power should be the sum of all load powers.

The energy management system (EMS) for most C&I energy storage systems does not require grid dispatching, resulting in relatively basic functionality. The primary focus of the EMS is local energy management, supporting battery balance management, ensuring operational safety, enabling millisecond-level fast response, and facilitating integrated management and centralized control of energy storage subsystem equipment.

Looking ahead, the period from 2023 to 2024 is expected to witness a new peak in the development of industrial and commercial energy storage. The demand for such systems, both domestically and internationally, is significant. While the competition pattern has not fully emerged, the market is on the verge of a breakout. Industrial and commercial energy storage has the potential to become a standard configuration in industrial production and large commercial districts, with ample room for growth.

ACDC, a company focused on research and development, has been closely following the market demand for energy storage batteries. In response to this demand, ACDC is set to release a series of industrial and commercial energy storage batteries. These new solutions will provide modular and flexible expandability at various power and capacity levels, offering an all-in-one design with AC coupling compatibility. ACDC's batteries will be perfectly matched to specific energy requirements, maximizing battery cell life. With outdoor housings suitable for any installation site, ACDC's broad portfolio of energy storage solutions enables efficient and cost-effective distribution and utilization of energy according to operational needs. Their expert systems and applications teams utilize specialized techno-economic tools to optimize the lifetime economics of projects, providing an investment-grade business case that supports project planning and financing. ACDC is committed to supporting its clients throughout every step of their energy storage journey.

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