Battery exchange model increases savings for local energy communities
In a new collaboration with Giga Storage, the University of Glasgow and Princeton University, researchers from Centrum Mathematics and Informatics (CWI) have developed a strategy to help maximize the financial benefits from the storage of shared batteries. The team introduced a method to determine optimum rental capacity and prices, guaranteeing mutual economic profit.
The model was validated using Real-World data from a 200-home community that was partly driven by a wind turbine. Even after invoicing the rental costs of the battery, the findings revealed considerable savings on energy costs for the community.
As more households take solar panels on the roof and wind turbines, storing surplus strength remains a challenge. At the same time, battery operators are looking for reliable income flows on unpredictable energy markets. This research outlines a mutual beneficial framework: communities rent part of a commercial battery with grid, storing energy when it is cheap and it attracts during peak prices.
The innovation depends on a mathematical model that calculates the ideal battery capacity and loading/discharge schemes based on fluctuating electricity prices, rates and question patterns. The approach adjusts profitability to sustainability.
The team was also about the battery life. Chief researcher Professor Valentin Robu noted: “Our work is investigating a number of techniques for changing linear optimization algorithms. The aim is to increase the financial profit in the long term by using the battery capacity, while the number of cargo/discharge cycles can be reduced, which can lead to a reduction of useful lifetime.”
With the help of data sets from GIGA storage and energy profiles from both the VK and the Netherlands, the solution is designed to scale in various countries and regulatory environments. The research supports a more effective use of locally generated renewable energy, improves the viability of energy projects led by the community and reduces dependence on centralized utilities.
Research report:Optimal size and control of a grid battery in a stacked turnover model including an energy community
