How BESS Supports Renewable Energy Integration

Renewable energy's clean, abundant appeal makes it an attractive option for companies aiming to improve sustainability and reduce emissions. Yet, while solar arrays and wind farms provide many environmental benefits, they are also subject to weather-dependent cycles. A solar installation, for instance, generates peak power under strong sunlight but tapers off late in the day, while wind turbines may produce inconsistent output when wind speeds fluctuate. This natural variability can lead to mismatches between supply and demand, resulting in either surplus energy that goes unused or shortfalls that trigger reliance on backup generators.

In Australia, renewable energy accounted for 39.4% of the total electricity supply in 2023, with solar contributing 16%, wind 12%, and hydro 6%. Rooftop solar installations have been particularly notable, with over 300,000 systems added in 2024, bringing the total installed capacity to approximately 25.5 GW. Despite this growth, the intermittent nature of these energy sources presents challenges in maintaining a stable and reliable power supply.

For industries like data centres, mining, and construction, downtime simply isn't an option. They need round-the-clock power to keep critical systems up and running, often in locations where grids are weak or non-existent. In such environments, the complexities of adopting solar or wind power multiply, particularly when a steady supply of power is non-negotiable. Additionally, grid operators must grapple with frequency imbalances caused by rapid shifts in renewable output, raising the risk of instability or even blackouts.

All these factors underscore why integrating renewables is more than just installing panels or turbines. It requires holistic planning that accounts for resource intermittency and energy storage solutions. By smoothing out the highs and lows of power production, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) provide industries with the stability they need to confidently embrace renewables, even in challenging conditions or remote off-grid scenarios.

Enhancing Grid Stability

One of the main hurdles in renewable energy adoption is grid stability. Solar and wind output can rise or fall quickly, making it tough to keep grid frequency constant. BESS balances these fluctuations by absorbing surplus energy when renewable generation spikes, then injecting it back into the grid if supply drops or demand grows. The mid-sized BESS offered by Aggreko can be parallel-capable, allowing multiple units to combine and offer larger-scale stability services when needed. This keeps voltage and frequency consistent, crucial for preventing blackouts and maintaining grid robustness.

 

Storing Excess Renewable Energy

In many renewable setups, particularly solar, there are times of day when generation outstrips immediate demand. Without storage, this surplus power simply goes to waste or is sold back to the grid at lower rates. By adding a battery storage component you capture excess energy for later. This boosts both cost-effectiveness and energy self-sufficiency, as well as reduces strain on existing infrastructure.

 

Providing Backup Power

No industry wants production lines, data servers, or site safety systems to halt simply because the wind died down or clouds rolled in. BESS provides a buffer, acting as instant backup to cover shortfalls when renewables dip below consumption levels. Instead of relying on a ramp-up period from fossil-fuel engines, battery storage ensures immediate continuity, protecting operational uptime and minimising carbon emissions.

 

Reducing Carbon Emissions

Relying heavily on diesel or other fossil-fuel generators pushes up both emissions and operating costs. When you pair BESS with renewable sources, you measurably reduce the hours that thermal generators run, decreasing overall fuel consumption. By capturing solar or wind energy for later use, industries can rely more on zero-emission power, a vital step for those looking to meet tighter environmental regulations or corporate sustainability targets.

 

Lowering Energy Costs

Energy expenses can skyrocket during high-demand periods if you’re drawing from the grid or continuously running diesel generators. BESS allows peak shaving, storing cheaper (or self-generated) energy for use at times when tariffs or demand is high. This not only curbs energy bills but also lessens wear and tear on existing generators. With Aggreko’s rental model, you get the benefits of advanced BESS technology without the capital investment or long-term ownership risks, making the economic argument for storage even stronger.

Data Centres

Data centres require constant, reliable power, but grid delays or limited capacity can disrupt operations. Aggreko’s bridging power solutions provide seamless integration of renewable sources and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), ensuring uninterrupted power. Our flexible, scalable energy solutions bridge the gap during construction or when grid power is insufficient, reducing reliance on diesel and helping meet sustainability goals while maintaining high service levels and operational efficiency.

Mining

Mining sites often operate off-grid or in regions with uncertain grid stability. Historically reliant on diesel, many mines now embrace solar or wind to reduce emissions and fuel costs. Aggreko’s battery storage provides peak shaving and backup capabilities, allowing mines to cut diesel consumption while still having dependable power. For tangible results, have a look at our hybridised solutions for remote gold mines in Western Australia or power setups in Indonesia.

Construction

Temporary construction sites typically depend on diesel generators that run continuously. By combining a battery energy storage system with your generator fleet, you reduce how often those generators need to run at full tilt, saving fuel, slashing emissions, and lowering noise pollution. And because our BESS units are mobile and modular, you can move them to different sections of a large site or deploy them on subsequent projects without fuss.

Events

High-profile events require a stable power supply yet often strive to minimise emissions and noise. With a BESS, you can store renewable or grid power in advance and discharge it as needed, limiting generator usage. This not only cuts carbon footprints but also reduces operational noise during performances or key event activities, enhancing the attendee experience while meeting sustainability commitments.

Other Sectors

From healthcare facilities to manufacturing plants, any operation needing rock-solid power can benefit from a battery solution. When integrated into existing grids or renewable installations, BESS addresses fluctuation issues, supports frequency regulation, and provides a buffer against short-term demand spikes.

Integrating renewable energy can transform how businesses approach sustainability, costs, and operational resilience. Yet, intermittent power supply has long limited the full potential of solar and wind. Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) close that gap, capturing surplus power and delivering it precisely when it’s needed most. By smoothing out the variability of renewables, BESS eliminates many of the obstacles industries face in adopting cleaner power.

Ready to take the next step towards a greener, more efficient energy future? Contact Aggreko today to learn how our expertly managed BESS offerings can help your organisation thrive on cleaner, more consistent power.

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