Today, most utility-scale solar inverters and converters use 1500 VDC input from the solar panels. Matching the energy storage DC voltage with that of the PV eliminates the need to convert battery voltage, resulting in greater space efficiency and avoided equipment costs.

The evolution of battery energy storage systems (BESS) is now pushing higher DC voltages in utility scale applications. The Wood Mackenzie Power & Renewables Report is forecasting phenomenal growth in the industry, with annual revenue projections growing from $1.2B in 2020 to $4.3B in 2025. With this tremendous market expansion, the industry is continually looking for ways to increase system efficiency. In the beginning, battery technology and sizes were left to traditional voltages such as the familiar 12 VDC used in lead acid battery systems. Over the last few years, we have seen DC voltages advance higher, using lithium-ion battery technology, to 250 VDC, 600 VDC, 1000 VDC and now even 1500 VDC. Higher voltages at the same amperage yield higher power. One of the key drivers of higher-voltage systems is the availability of advanced solar inverters and power converters.

Considering that most utility-scale battery energy storage systems are now being deployed alongside utility scale solar installations, it makes sense that the battery systems match the input DC voltages of the inverters and converters. Today most utility-scale solar inverters and converters use 1500 VDC input from the solar panels. The single line diagram below illustrates a BESS integrated with utility-scale renewable generation. You will notice the BESS power converter solution is connected to the input side of the inverter and in parallel to the input of the solar PV panels rated 1500 VDC.

The BESS DC voltage is matched with the 1500 VDC from the solar PV panels and the input on the solar inverter. This eliminates the need to convert the battery voltage, resulting in greater energy and space efficiency and avoided equipment costs. The evolution of higher DC voltages brings some challenges, such as finding components rated at the higher voltage that have embedded protection features. To address these concerns, component manufacturers are developing products rated at 1500 VDC, including:

• Breakers designed to protect against system overloads

• Disconnect switches used to isolate battery racks

• Insulation monitors used to measure leakage currents

• Contactors used to quickly switch battery banks on and off

• Fuses and fuse holders used to help protect against faults

• Ground fault devices used to help protect against system ground faults

If you have any requirements or any kind of query regarding the Energy storage solutions for your desired applications, feel free to communicate with our dedicated team at any time at marketing@everexceed.com.