Deploy BESS systems
Wind and solar power production depends on available energy resources. To make the most of these resources and ensure the electricity they generate can be tapped into when the demand arises, battery energy storage systems (BESS) are essential. With projects such as Hagersville or Tilbury, we are delivering on our ambitions to create value in the renewable energy sector. Our goal is to deploy BESS systems that help stabilize the grid and promote the balanced integration of renewable energy.
What are the benefits of battery energy storage systems ?
Our Energy Storage Projects:
Powering the Communities We Serve
Plouguin
Plouguin is the second storage unit in operation for Boralex in France.
Plouguin Finistère, France
Capacity of 3.3 MWh
Labeled and supported by the local association Smile
Co-financed by the EU through the FEDER
Energy Storage Systems FAQs
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Battery energy storage systems, often referred to as BESS systems, are devices that make it possible to store energy from renewable sources or the power grid. Lithium-ion batteries — the same technology that powers mobile phones and electric cars — have long been the most common type of battery used to meet large-scale storage needs.
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In addition to lithium-ion batteries, there are emerging technologies including flow batteries and iron- or sodium-based batteries. Still others are currently in the research and development pipeline of private or public laboratories.
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Efficient energy storage is vital to the energy transition, making it possible to optimize the use of produced renewable energy by storing what isn’t needed immediately for later use (e.g., if the grid goes down or if there is a spike in demand). Stored energy bridges gaps in production and compensates for fluctuations to ensure an uninterrupted power supply. This makes wind and solar power much more viable and attractive as long-term solutions.
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Storage solutions play an essential role in ensuring a balance between energy consumption and use, and in stabilizing energy supply. As a result, a steady output of 60 Hz in North America (50 Hz in Europe) can be maintained and the necessary capacity can be supplied, which is especially important for communities in isolated regions or at the end of the grid.
In times of peak demand, the energy storage system will kick in whatever’s needed to restore this balance. Likewise, in times of peak production, the system will automatically store the excess electricity for subsequent use.
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As wind and solar power comes into more and more widespread use, the storage of the resulting energy will be paramount to getting it to where it is needed. BESS systems are similar to grid balancing services in that they are essential to weaning us off our reliance on fossil fuels. Currently, lithium-ion is the most common type of battery on the market. The French Agency for Ecological Transition (ADEME) and the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) both consider that lithium does not pose a major risk along the value chain. This, however, in no way precludes the need to optimize the processes involved in recycling battery materials to ensure a sustainable future for this essential technology.
