The emerging energy storage industry can be overwhelming, but it is also exciting, with significant opportunities for impact. Energy storage is increasingly adopted to optimize energy usage, reduce costs, and lower carbon footprint. Among the various lithium-ion battery chemistries available, Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) and Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4, or LFP for short) have emerged […]
We’ve all seen the headlines by now. From “[The] U.S. solar market expected to triple in size in five years” to “The South is building the most vibrant EV and battery hub in the US” the PV and energy storage industries are quickly mobilizing to meet the growing market demands following the passage of the […]
Whether you are an industry veteran or a DIYer out over your skis, you’ll have to grapple with code if you want to install an energy storage system (ESS). More specifically, you’ll have to grapple (metaphorically, of course) with your local inspector. In the world of solar and battery storage, the National Electrical Code (NEC) […]
While the schedule for code cycle adoption varies state-to-state, it is important to be aware of the latest changes to the National Electrical Code before they take effect in your jurisdiction. In this article, we highlight and provide clarity on the five changes from the 2020 NEC to the 2023 NEC that will have the biggest impact on the installation of PV and energy storage systems
In this edition of our Code Corner video series, Justine Sanchez covers the evolution of energy storage fire code requirements from 1997 up to the 2021 code cycle.
In this edition of Code Corner, we talk about NFPA 855, Standard for the Installation of Stationary Energy Storage Systems. In particular, spacing requirements and limitations for energy storage systems (ESS). NFPA 855 sets the rules in residential settings for each energy storage unit—how many kWh you can have per unit and the spacing requirements between those units. First, let’s start with the language and then we’ll explain what this means. In Section 15.5 of NFPA 855, we learn that individual ESS units shall be separated from each other by a minimum of three feet, unless smaller separation distances are documented to be adequate and approved by the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) based on large-scale fire testing.
Our previous installment of Mayfield Microgrids (insert link here) discussed some of the pros and cons of microgrids, including real-world examples of beneficial (and profitable) microgrids already in place today. Residential buildings, large commercial stores, and even entire university campuses can see increased resiliency and reliability, all at a lower generating cost than traditional grid-tied rates. There are many variables that affect the overall results of the microgrid, starting with site-specific weather data and infrastructure will determine the total output potential. Then, the estimated total output, along with local utility rates and available incentives can help calculate the economic benefits. Finally, economic feasibility, along with any other standards for the microgrid’s performance (load response, resiliency, energy arbitrage, etc.) can be used to calculate a more comprehensive picture of the microgrid’s potential benefits.
In our last installment of our Microgrids Blog Series (“Microgrids Explained”), we defined microgrids and the three distinct features that distinguish them from a normal ‘macrogrid’:
an easily identifiable boundary from the rest of the grid
resources within the microgrid are controlled together
the microgrid can function whether or not it is connected to the larger grid;
and also discussed some higher-level applications of microgrids, including cost-cutting, emergency backup, and extended islanding. Microgrids can be a driver for grid reliability, resiliency, security, and control, but also present some major challenges to widespread implementation.
The term “microgrid” is not well understood. If you ask five people to describe a microgrid, you will likely get five different answers. Here, I provide an overview of what a microgrid is, how a microgrid is constructed, and some typical applications for a microgrid system.
Fundamental to every highly technical field is a standard set of terms that manufacturers, designers and end users can employ to help understand and compare these systems. Building off our recent energy storage posts, here is an overview of the common terminology within the growing ESS industry.
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