Schneider Electric has unveiled an energy storage system for grid-scale applications. The company’s Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is the cornerstone for a fully integrated microgrid solution driven by Schneider Electric’s controls, optimization, and world-renowned digital and field services.

Distribution company Graybar is the first channel partner for Schneider Electric’s new BESS, offered as part of the EcoStruxure Microgrid Flex system.

“With over two decades of expertise in battery conversion, we are proud to introduce a solution meticulously crafted with flexibility at its core,” said Jana Gerber, Schneider Electric’s President of North America Microgrids. “Our aim is to streamline energy expenditures while amplifying the use of renewable resources, including solar PV. Combining our proven track record of innovation with Graybar’s focus on renewable energy solutions will accelerate this mission.”

Comprised of a lithium-iron phosphate battery system, battery management system, power conversion system and controller, BESS has been tested and validated to work alongside Schneider Electric’s standardized microgrid system, EcoStruxure Microgrid Flex, and fully integrated into the software suite, which includes EcoStruxure Microgrid Operation, and EcoStruxure Microgrid Advisor. With a scalable configuration and advanced safety controls, BESS minimizes energy costs and features:

• Full Integration: The all-in-one enclosure incorporates pre-integrated components for both AC-coupled and DC-coupled BESS, streamlining site engineering, construction, and installation processes while minimizing labor and material expenses. The paralleling capability enables multiple BESS units to function as a unified entity. This comprehensive integration encompasses inverters, batteries, cooling systems, transformers, safety features, and controls, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
• UL Certified and Compliant: The solution is fully certified and compliant with UL 9540 certification and has a fire safety system design aligned with the latest standards outlined in NFPA 855.
• Easy Installation & Maintenance: The ready-to-deploy system, featuring a tested, validated, and documented architecture (TVDA), facilitates installation processes, surpassing the efficiency of traditional custom-engineered designs. The solution also integrates with energy management systems (EMS), significantly reducing integration time and minimizing field errors.
• Resilience: The system offers bidirectional connectivity to the grid, providing the flexibility to operate as either grid-connected or off-grid. With the capacity to store energy for immediate access during outages, BESS can deliver up to 2 MW of power when needed.

There are two connection-ready BESS options available: a small, hybrid 7-ft NEMA 3R Enclosure that is both AC- and DC-coupled and a medium 20-ft NEMA 3R Enclosure that is AC-coupled. Both feature scalable configurations with various options available from 60 kW to 2 MW in 2-hr and 4-hr configurations.

News item from Schneider Electric