Electrochemical Storage and Flexibility in Transfer Capacities: Strategies and Uses for Vulnerable Power Grids

The integration of renewable energy sources into electrical power systems presents enormous challenges in technical terms, especially with energy storage. Battery electrochemical storage systems (BESSs) are becoming a crucial solution for reducing the intermittency of renewable energy supply and enhance the stability of power networks. Nonetheless, its extensive implementation confronts constraints, including expense, life expectancy, and energy efficiency. Simultaneously, these technologies present prospects for improved energy management, increase the hosting capacity of renewable energy, and diminish reliance on fossil fuels. This paper investigates the obstacles of integrating electrochemical storage into electrical power systems, explores solutions to use its promise for creating more resilient and sustainable grids, and presents a method for the size estimation and strategic allocation of electrochemical energy storage systems (EESSs). The aim is to improve grid voltage profiles, manage demand response, increase the adoption of renewable energy resources, enhance power transfer among various areas, and subsequently improve the stability of a power system during large disturbances. The methodology utilizes a multi-stage optimization process based on economic considerations supported by dynamic simulation. This methodology was tested employing a validated dynamic model of the Interconnected Electrical System of the Central American Countries (SIEPAC). The system experienced multiple significant blackouts in recent years, primarily due to the increasing amount of renewable energy generation without adequate inertial support and limited power transfer capabilities among countries. Based on the results of using the technique, EESSs can effectively lower the risk of instability caused by an imbalance between power generation and demand during extreme situations, as seen in past event reports. Based on economical constraints, it has been determined that the cost of installing EESSs for the SIEPAC, which amounts to 1200 MWh/200 MW, is 140.91 USD/MWh.