Behind-The-Meter (BTM) energy storage involves integrating energy storage systems, such as batteries, allowing users to store excess electricity for future use. This approach, highlighted in emerging markets like data centres, aims to address peak demand costs, enhance grid stability, and provide backup power during outages in regions with unreliable power grids.
The electrochemical device central to this solution, known as a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), captures energy during charging and releases it as electricity or other services as needed. BTM BESS specifically refers to stationary storage systems connected to the distribution system on the customer’s side of the utility’s service meter.
What are the Characteristics of Behind The Meter (BTM) Energy Storage?
Characteristics of Behind The Meter (BTM) Energy Storage:
1. Size and Quantity
- BTM systems have smaller capacities but are multiple.
- Trouble: Size and Quantity complexity hinder integration, posing difficulties for utilities in processing applications.
- Resolution: Well-designed interconnection processes can simplify this procedure without negatively impacting the power system.
2. Siting and Operation
- Utility-scale systems are located and dispatched to meet the needs of the power system.
- BTM systems are installed and operated in response to customer needs.
- Trouble: A misalignment between customer and power system requirements.
- Resolution: Effective compensation mechanisms and other policy instruments can align interests, ensuring that the deployment and operation of BTM systems benefit all power system stakeholders.
3. Visibility
- System operators and utilities have only a limited understanding of BTM system operations, observing only the difference between customer demand and storage operation.
- Trouble: This limitation can have an impact on planning exercises and routine operational practices.
- Resolution: Well-structured interconnection requirements can mandate sufficient metering and telemetry equipment installation to assist utilities; however, the potential burden on installing customers should be carefully considered.
Also See: What is Thermal Energy Storage?
What are the Differences between Behind-The-Meter and Front-Of-The-Meter Systems?
Behind-the-meter and front-of-the-meter systems both play important roles in the energy mix, but they serve different purposes and affect energy users in different ways. Behind-the-meter systems enable customers to manage their energy generation and consumption, presenting opportunities for cost savings and increased resilience.
Front-of-the-meter systems, on the other hand, are critical for ensuring overall energy supply and grid stability and are becoming increasingly important as we shift to a greater reliance on renewable energy sources.
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