What are these Virtual Power Plants I keep hearing about?
EnQuest Energy Solutions is working with our customers to solve their challenges to support the power grid with solutions ranging from battery energy storage and NG-fired power generation equipment in stationary and mobile applications. Our equipment is often used to support the problems the evolving power grid faces from intermittent generation, aging infrastructure, and dynamic loads from EV charging networks and oil field service applications.
Energy storage, in the form of utility-scale battery storage connected to the grid directly (in front of the meter) or aggregations of battery and power generation resources at multiple locations on the distribution grid (behind the meter), is increasingly used by the US power grid to enhance its reliability and efficiency. One growing application of distributed battery storage and power generation equipment for FTM and BTM is virtual power plants (VPPs).
A virtual power plant is a decentralized, small-scale power-generating unit network, including renewable and fossil-fired generation and battery storage systems. These units are connected through a centralized software platform that allows them to act as a single power plant, responding to the demands of the grid.
In the context of VPPs, battery storage plays a crucial role. Battery systems can store excess electricity during periods of low demand or high generation, such as during the day when solar panels produce an abundance of power. This stored energy can then be dispatched during peak demand periods or when renewable energy generation is low.
By leveraging battery storage within VPPs, utilities, and grid operators gain several advantages. Firstly, it helps in integrating renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, into the grid. These intermittent sources can be more effectively utilized when battery systems store surplus energy and release it when needed, addressing the issue of variability.
Secondly, battery storage enables grid operators to deliver electricity with greater reliability and stability. During periods of high demand, batteries can discharge stored energy rapidly, providing an instant energy source to stabilize the grid and meet sudden spikes in power consumption.
Thirdly, virtual power plants with battery storage can contribute to high-quality power supply by offering frequency regulation services. Batteries can respond quickly to provide or absorb power based on the grid's frequency variations, maintaining a stable frequency within the desired range.
Moreover, VPPs with battery storage can also provide grid support during outages or emergencies. When there is a disruption in the grid, these interconnected battery systems can provide backup power almost instantaneously, ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply to critical infrastructures or homes.
Overall, battery storage is a key component in virtual power plants, allowing for enhanced grid reliability, integration of renewables, frequency regulation, and emergency power support. As battery technology advances and costs continue to decrease, we can expect to see increased deployment of VPPs equipped with battery storage to improve the efficiency and sustainability of the US power grid.
By Chris Melley – Head of Energy Storage and EV Infrastructure