Energetica India Magazine: september 2020

RENEWABLE ENERGY lithium-ion battery pack prices have dropped around 80-90 percent in the same timeframe. Cost declines for these technologies are projected to continue. In parallel, innovations in intelligent con- trols and integration technologies, like the e-mesh™ solution, have created a successful enabling environment for is- lands to unlock the economic benefits and decrease fossil fuel usage. As renewable and storage prices fall, fossil fuel prices continue to spike and disrupt island economies. Renewable and storage investments can protect utility rate payers from fuel volatility, while supporting the islands in achiev- ing their environmental and domestic energy goals. There is no technical limit to higher contribution of renewable ener- gy; it is expected that the contribution of renewable energy possible at least cost will continue to improve as technological innovation continues. The opportunity for BESS and smart controls with renewable energy in is- lands is immense. These technologies can increase fuel efficiency of the ex - isting generation fleet, reduce wear and tear on the generation assets, stabilize frequency and voltage to improve power quality, all while improving renewable in- tegration and use of renewable energy. Each island is unique and has its own driving factors for using renewables. They can reduce energy volatility, in- crease use of local energy and limit con- tributions to climate change. Key stake- holders in island energy systems include the utility, the island government, local renewable advocates and citizens, busi- nesses and utility ratepayers. In addition to these domestic stakeholders, there is a diverse set of multilateral funding agencies, various political associations and investors that are working with is- land residents to influence their decision to transition to a lower-cost and less-vol- atile energy supply. Hitachi ABB Power Grids has developed a modular solution with flexible design options to address this diversity of needs in islands. Proven advanced integration tech- nologies and controls also create an opportunity for utilities to leapfrog the challenges of utilities in larger markets. Grid Edge Solutions (GES) has expertise and experience in designing optimized microgrid and battery energy storage solutions across a range of applications serving remote communities, islands, utilities and industrial customers. We are a leading provider of microgrid products and solutions that offer a complete end to end approach from initial consultan- cy through to remote monitoring. These flagship solutions for island electrical grids are based on the e-meshtm port- folio and offer flexibility and scalability to support power island power demands from hundreds of kilowatts to tens of megawatts. Hitachi ABB Power Grids/GES busi- ness has supported many islands in their goals to lower costs and increase the use of renewable energy. Globally GES has successfully supported more than 200 microgrid and battery projects deployed globally, with a cumulative installed capacity exceeding 500 MW. This proven track record of renewable systems operating in all corners of the globe provides islands with certainty that they too can unlock these benefits. To summarize, the grid edge technol- ogies presented here: battery energy storage and solar PV with smart controls can reduce costs, reduce risk, and in- crease renewable penetration and con- tribution to meet island goals. The low cost of these technologies presents a compelling case to justify making an in- vestment in them to reduce reliance on diesel fuel today. Their economics and technical capabilities present an invest- ment opportunity for islands and island utilities where the technical, economic, and environmental goals all align. energetica INDIA- September_2020 47 Hitachi ABB Power Grids Customer, Robben Island, South Africa