As energy costs for trade and industry are rising rapidly, commercial energy storage systems are becoming increasingly important for energy managers. The challenge of optimizing their own energy consumption is particularly important for companies that operate energy-intensively and have perhaps already invested in photovoltaic systems.
However, selecting the right battery storage system is often associated with questions: Which key figures are really meaningful when comparing offers? How can you separate the wheat from the chaff? Even the “Battery Storage Test 2024” compares apples with oranges – pv magazine Deutschland (pv-magazine.de).
With the following 7 tips, our guide not only offers you orientation in the decision-making process, but also debunks common misunderstandings and prepares you for typical pitfalls.
Important key figures for electricity storage systems and their significance
An efficient electricity storage system can mean the difference between inefficient energy waste and optimized use for a company. It makes it possible to store energy at times of low demand and make it available precisely when demand is at its highest. But not all energy storage systems are the same. Here are the key figures that really count:
Overall efficiency
A common misconception is that the efficiency of individual components reflects the overall performance of an energy storage system. However, the overall efficiency, which describes how much of the energy fed into the grid can ultimately be used, is the decisive factor.
Tip 1: Ask your provider explicitly about the overall efficiency and ask them to explain the processes and components involved.
Warranty conditions
Often a hidden cost. In the event of a warranty claim, it is important to know who is liable for the costs. In some cases, it may be the buyer and not the manufacturer who has to provide evidence.
Tip 2: Find out exactly what the warranty conditions are and have them confirmed in writing. Pay attention to how defects must be proven and who is liable in the event of damage.
Price and included services
What appears transparent at first glance can be complex on closer inspection. Which technical systems are included in the price? An integrated energy management system (EMS) can be crucial for efficiency. Post-installation services, such as monitoring or user-friendly remote control of the electricity storage system, are also essential.
Tip 3: Ask for a detailed cost estimate and have each item explained in detail.
Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
There are certain metrics that appear attractive at first, but on closer inspection do not reflect the actual benefits for your storage application. Therefore, always take the following sales arguments with a grain of salt.
LCOE (Levelized Cost of Energy)
Originally intended for the comparison of PV systems, the LCOE has its pitfalls when it comes to electricity storage systems. This value can be misleading as it does not take into account the overall efficiency of the storage system (charging and discharging process).
Tip 4: When comparing storage offers, focus on the overall efficiency and see the LCOE as additional information.
Number of cycles
Today, it is almost impossible to reliably determine the service life of a battery storage system based on the number of cycles. Although there are average estimates, these can vary too much depending on usage and environmental conditions.
Tip 5: Pay more attention to the warranty conditions and try to transfer the risk of battery life to the manufacturer.
Efficiency
An often quoted but frequently misunderstood key figure. Be sure to ask which processes and components are considered. Efficiency only provides limited information about how efficiently a battery storage system really works.
Tip 6: Always put efficiency figures in relation to overall efficiency.
Energy density
Gravimetric or volumetric energy density: Although these values may be of interest for certain storage applications, they usually play a subordinate role in commercial storage systems.
Tip 7: Concentrate on the key figures relevant to your application and do not be dazzled by high energy density values.
Final thoughts and conclusion
Purchasing a commercial energy storage system is a forward-looking decision. Thorough research and asking the right questions are essential. This guide is intended to give you an insight into the most important aspects and key figures. The tips mentioned will help you to identify the best product for your requirements and avoid potential pitfalls. An efficient energy storage system can make a significant contribution to reducing energy costs and enable more sustainable operational management. Investing in the right technology therefore pays off.
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