The energy transition is an evolution, not a revolution, and the key to delivering an affordable, reliable, renewable power system is utilising the assets we already have. But how can you teach an old generator new tricks?
With the rapid growth and development of BESS (battery energy storage systems), staying ahead to meet the evolving customer needs in the hybrid market, can require the adaption of old and new technologies.
To help the industry overcome these challenges, a team of engineers at Tutt Bryant Power has prepared a series technical articles focused on integration of the old and new.
Good communication
According to these experts, if you are considering an off-gird hybrid power system, integrating a BESS with your existing generator will mostly likely be your best choice for both reliability and fuel efficiency, ultimately leading to a reduction in carbon emissions.
To form a reliable hybrid system, an effective communication system is critical to ensure good interaction between BESS and generator. It offers seamless load transitions, dynamic load sharing and reliable backup power.
Smart controllers can be found in both BESS and generator, continuously monitoring and managing the energy source in real-time. Key parameters like voltage, current, frequency and state of charge in the BESS – along with engine data from the generator, are monitored and recorded by their respective controllers.
If the controllers share the same communication protocols, most likely from the same brand and model, the BESS and generator can communicate and exchange data in a real-time when connected to form a hybrid system.
The controller within the BESS is typically designed as the central controller to manage the hybrid system.
It receives the data from the generator controller and adapts the electrical output to synchronise the two power sources. It can also control simple start and stopp functions of the generator for recharging the BESS; or more advanced conditions, optimising the power distribution between the BESS and the generator through synchronisation to meet for the actual load demand requirements.
Unfortunately, not all generators have controllers suitable for communication with a BESS.
The team at Tutt Bryant realised this was a major barrier preventing the industry from reaping the full benefits of renewable energy, so the company supplies BESS systems with STS (static transfer switches), serving a crucial role under this circumstance.
The generator can be connected to the BESS through the STS with the STS acting as the primary controller, allowing the hybrid system to seamlessly transition between power sources, from BESS to generator or vice versa.
It can also allow for the combination of power from both sources, increasing overall capacity or providing a means to manage power during peak demand.
In combination with the power conversion system, the STS’s also has a bi-directional feature, allowing energy to flow into the BESS to charge up the battery whilst simultaneously discharging to the load. Under this arrangement, the generator is considered the primary power source and the BESS will subsequently provide the additional power needed during high demand.
Where an STS is used, the recommended power rating of the generator is on average 70 per cent of the maximum loading. Communication between the controllers of BESS and generator provides optimised performance based on monitored data and predefined setting, while connection via an STS allows flexibility in the choice of generator for building a hybrid power system.
For more information, visit tuttbryantpower.com.au
