Introduction and Caveats Tax credits for solar PV and battery energy storage project investments witnessed some stark revisions with the passing of H.B.1, the budget reconciliation bill, on July 4th. Paths forward remain for certain kinds of projects and tax filers in the commercial and industrial sector. Like all things Internal Revenue Code and policy, […]
Where can you legally install a battery energy storage system (BESS)? Depending on the system’s use case, battery chemistry, nameplate energy capacity, and provisional equipment space, answering this question demands, in part, that we are well-versed in relevant fire codes. 2024 International Fire Code The clearest statement of requirements for BESS installation location, from a […]
When installing a battery energy storage system (BESS) in a behind-the-meter project, what is the maximum size allowed in a single fire area? For the vast majority of commercial and industrial (C&I) BESS projects, say 100 kW to 10 MW nameplate power, we’re given rules by local, state, or other authorities having jurisdiction about the […]
Since arriving on the market in the 1990s, a broad swath of products often lumped under the category of “lithium-ion batteries” has wriggled its way into much of our world: our cellphones, tablets, laptops, digital cameras, children’s toys, e-cigarettes, automated vacuums, power tools, lawn care equipment, e-bikes, EVs, and, of course, stationary energy storage. Of […]
Mt. Hood Town Hall is a community gathering place in the Upper Hood River Valley that acts as a recycling center, community meals distribution hub, middle-school classroom, and a venue for special public events. Originally built in 1914 and owned by Hood River County, the facility is a registered Historic Building. In the past it […]
The study of a lithium-ion battery (LIB) system safety risks often centers on fire potential as the paramount concern, yet the benchmark testing method of the day, UL 9540A, is keen to place fire risk as one among at least three risks, alongside off-gas and explosion. In this blog, we’ll shift some focus towards off-gas and […]
Microgrids are a way to maximize the use of clean, renewable energy, both to reduce electricity bills and ultimately drive decarbonization and electrification goals. Since energy consumption can be one of the biggest operational costs for many commercial-scale properties, the ability to reduce, predict, and control monthly expenditures is a welcome scenario. Microgrids also provide […]
Depending on where you are in the country, integrating energy storage systems (ESS) with commercial solar photovoltaic (PV) systems offers significant financial benefits. ESS can enhance the cost-effectiveness of solar energy through strategies like energy arbitrage, peak demand reduction, and avoiding PV export penalties. These advantages lead to substantial savings and improve the overall return […]
In 2018, the California Solar Energy Industries Association (CALSEIA) rebranded to become the California Solar and Storage Association (CALSSA). Their justification was simple, it was a move that “recognizes solar’s central role in the future of the U.S. electricity generation mix while acknowledging its next evolution is inextricably intertwined with the increased use of energy […]
In today’s rapidly evolving energy landscape, businesses face increasing pressure to enhance their energy efficiency, reduce costs, and achieve business operations reliability while contributing to sustainability efforts. Two innovative solutions that have gained prominence recently are energy storage systems (ESS) and microgrids. These technologies not only transform how energy is managed but also the role […]
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