Belectric’s ‘Energy Buffer Unit’ provides balancing service to grids with high renewable energy

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Reddit
Email

Belectric’s Energy Buffer Unit (EBU) has been successfully prequalified for 1.3MW frequency response by a German transmission network operator (TNO) that provides frequency response balancing for reliable grid operation when taking into account large quantities of renewable energy being connected to grid. Belectric’s EBU system delivers a state-of-the-art battery based energy storage system in a container solution.

Problem

With increased adoption of renewable energy, grid operators have to better manage fluctuations in the transmission network. Large-scale battery storage improves the safety of transmission network operation, even during heavy fluctuations like a generator or interconnector trip. 

This article requires Premium SubscriptionBasic (FREE) Subscription

Try Premium for just $1

  • Full premium access for the first month at only $1
  • Converts to an annual rate after 30 days unless cancelled
  • Cancel anytime during the trial period

Premium Benefits

  • Expert industry analysis and interviews
  • Digital access to PV Tech Power journal
  • Exclusive event discounts

Or get the full Premium subscription right away

Or continue reading this article for free

Solution

Belectric’s EBU system can be prequalified for frequency response on the German transmission network with up to 650kW, taking into account reserve capacity required by the German TNOs. The advanced lead-acid batteries were developed for a long service life and high cycling stability for high performance applications. EBU system standardization enabled Belectric to offer a cost-effective utility scale energy storage system. Services from the EBU will be offered on the frequency response market on a weekly basis. Due to rising prices in this market over the last three years, attractive business models are now appearing for the use of energy storage.

Applications

Energy Buffer Unit is for frequency response and other cyclic grid applications.

Platform

The EBU is shipped with power inverter and medium voltage transformer and features a nameplate power between 800kW and 1400kW, depending on configuration. It has a storage capacity of 948 kWh and is available starting at €560,000. BELECTRIC UK is also collaborating with UK’s National Grid to demonstrate frequency and voltage stability of distribution networks — protecting the UK from power blackouts and instability — and so reduce the grid’s reliance on spinning reserve. The Enhanced Frequency Control Capability (EFCC) project is using grid monitoring and control system that identify potential problems as they arise and uses the EBU unit and management technology to rectify them.

Availability

May 2015 onwards. 

Read Next

September 11, 2025
Founder Group has won a RM10 million (US$2.3 million) engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning contract for a 30MW solar plant in Malaysia.
September 11, 2025
German renewable energy developer ib vogt has signed a 70MW solar PV virtual power purchase agreement (vPPA) in Romania.
September 11, 2025
Madison Energy Infrastructure has raised US$800 million to accelerate the deployment of clean energy assets across the US. 
September 11, 2025
The PEARL Consortium has developed perovskite solar cells with carbon electrodes with a conversion efficiency of 21.6%.
September 11, 2025
The EBRD has launched a new programme to improve access to green financing and support energy investments such as renewable power projects.
September 11, 2025
Constant Energy has secured THB300 million (US$9.4 million) in green financing from HSBC to expand large-scale solar and battery storage projects in Thailand. 

Subscribe to Newsletter

Upcoming Events

Solar Media Events
September 16, 2025
Athens, Greece
Solar Media Events
September 30, 2025
Seattle, USA
Solar Media Events
October 1, 2025
London, UK
Solar Media Events
October 2, 2025
London,UK
Solar Media Events
October 7, 2025
Manila, Philippines