GOM&P Division Manager | Power System Planning | Transmission System Studies | System Operation | Grid Simulation Tools | PSS/E | Leadership | Energy Management | Projects Management
Great perspective! Maintaining BESS around 50% SOC is widely accepted for Primary Frequency Response (PFR), as it maximizes flexibility to both absorb and inject power. However, the optimum SOC in real-world operations depends on more than just theoretical balance. Local grid characteristics, frequency deviation patterns, system response times, and especially the physical and electrical location of the BESS all influence what “optimal” means. With the increasing penetration of renewable energy (RE) sources like solar and wind, system planners must consider the variability and uncertainty these introduce to frequency dynamics. Additionally, grid congestion plays a crucial role as even if a BESS is at an ideal SOC, network constraints may limit its ability to charge or discharge effectively. This makes the planner’s role even more critical by analysing grid topology, congestion points, renewable profiles, and operational constraints, planners can define SOC targets and positioning strategies that maximize the BESS’s real-world impact on grid stability. #EnergyStorage #BESS #PowerSystems #GridServices #SystemPlanning #EnergyStrategy
Power System Engineer | Power System Operation, Planning & Control | Power System Restoration | Renac Certified Energy Transformation Expert
Optimal Operating Point of BESS for Frequency Response If you're involved in #EnergyStorage, #GridServices, or the #EnergyTransition, you know Primary Frequency Response (PFR) is a great application for BESS. But what should be the best operating point for State of Charge (SOC) point? If PFR is required for rapid reaction to both under-frequency (discharge) and over-frequency (charge) events. Then at 50% SOC, a BESS will have maximum available capacity in both directions, ensuring it always meet its commitment to the grid operator. A BESS at 95% SOC can't absorb power for long during an over-frequency event. Similarly, BESS at 5% SOC can't discharge for long during an under-frequency event. Operating around 50% SOC guarantees response in either direction. In short, we can say that for a BESS dedicated to frequency regulation, the goal isn't to be full of energy. The goal is to be perfectly balanced, ready to serve the grid instantly in either direction. #BESS #BatteryStorage #FrequencyResponse #GridStability #RenewableEnergy #SolarEnergy #WindEnergy #Utilities #SmartGrid #Engineering
