Battery Energy Storage: Unlocking New Value from Onsite Renewables

Written By Ben Forbes

As energy prices remain volatile and grid flexibility becomes increasingly important, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are emerging as a key solution for businesses looking to maximize the value of onsite renewable generation - particularly solar.

Why Storage Matters

Solar energy is most productive during daylight hours, but business demand doesn’t always align perfectly. By integrating a battery system, you can store excess solar power for use later - reducing reliance on grid imports and further lowering your electricity bills.

Storage also allows for energy arbitrage: buying or storing electricity when it's cheap and using or exporting it when prices are high. Combined with recent changes like Modification P415, this opens up new revenue opportunities in the wholesale market and balancing services.

Benefits of BESS for Businesses:

  • Maximize Solar Self-Consumption
    Store surplus solar energy during the day and use it in the evening or during high-price periods.

  • Avoid Peak Charges
    Reduce exposure to expensive peak-time electricity rates and capacity charges.

  • Monetize Flexibility
    Participate in flexibility markets by discharging stored energy when the grid needs it most.

  • Backup Power Support
    In some configurations, batteries can also provide resilience in the event of grid outages.

  • Support Net Zero Goals
    Improve the carbon efficiency of your site and make better use of your clean energy.

Storage + PPA = Smarter Energy Strategy

If you're considering a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for solar, adding a battery can significantly boost the financial return. While PPAs provide low-cost renewable energy, a storage system helps you use even more of it onsite - further reducing energy bought from the grid.

And just like our PPAs, battery projects can also be structured with no upfront cost, depending on the commercial model and site profile.

Final Thought

Battery storage isn't just a technical upgrade - it's a strategic energy tool. When combined with solar, PPAs, and market changes like P415, it gives businesses greater control over costs, carbon, and consumption.

Want to learn how storage could work at your site?
Get in touch to explore battery solutions tailored to your energy goals.

Ben Forbes
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Modification P415