In an era of growing demand for sustainable energy sources and the search for efficient solutions leading to energy independence, industrial energy storage systems are becoming an increasingly popular solution for companies and manufacturing plants. Among other things, they allow the storage of surplus energy from renewable sources, such as photovoltaic installations, but also make it possible to optimize power consumption and reduce costs associated with distribution fees. An important advantage of them is also to make the plant independent of power outages which may be becoming an increasingly frequent phenomenon in recent times.

However, the installation of an industrial energy storage system is a complex process, requiring detailed planning, needs analysis and thorough compliance analysis. Every step, from assessing the energy consumption profile to obtaining approvals and conducting tests, has a huge impact on the efficiency and profitability of the entire investment. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step overview of the process of implementing an industrial energy storage system, what formalities need to be fulfilled and what to pay special attention to when setting up a new investment.

1. Analysis of energy needs

The first, and most important, step in the installation process involves a thorough analysis of the energy needs of the system on which the energy storage is planned. We prepare the analysis based on consumption profiles and production profiles of RES sources.

Our analysis includes:

• • Possible savings on distribution fees,
  • Expected annual revenues generated by the energy storage system,
  • Determination of the period of return on investment,
  • Possible ways to finance the project,
  • The most favorable technical solutions and system topologies.

2. Calculations, simulations and selection of energy storage parameters

Aby wybrać najlepsze parametry magazynu energii, przeprowadzamy szczegółowe kalkulacje i symulacje z wykorzystaniem naszego autorskiego kalkulatora opłacalności. To select the best energy storage parameters, we conduct detailed calculations and simulations using our proprietary cost-effectiveness calculator. To perform the analysis needed information is:

• • Power of the RES installation (e.g., photovoltaic),
  • Connection power,
  • Contracted power,
  • Consumption profile (e.g., hourly or 15-minute consumption profile from the whole year),
  • Contact information of the investor.

Based on this, we present various scenarios, which allows you to decide on the most effective and economically viable solution.

3. Checking compatibility with existing infrastructure

The next step is to check the feasibility of building the energy storage in the existing infrastructure. At this stage, we determine whether the storage is to be installed in a newly created or existing infrastructure, and select a suitable installation site.

We perform a site analysis, which may include::

• Environmental analysis (if necessary) *,
• Acoustic analysis (if necessary),
• Consultation with local authorities and other reviewing bodies (if necessary).

* Environmental decision (based on the Regulation of the Council of Ministers of September 10, 2019 on projects that may significantly affect the environment, § 3 (1)(54)(b):

• • Not required for (however, consultation with environmental authorities is recommended for confirmation):
    • Storage systems with a capacity of up to 20kW,,
    • ESS of small size (smaller than 0.5 hectares in protected areas and smaller than 1 hectare in other areas),
    • ESS that do not interfere with the environment (located inside buildings),
    • Storage systems that are part of an existing and previously proven installation (it is treated as an extension of the system),
    • Warehouses erected in accordance with the local development plan,
  • Required for storages that do not meet the above criteria.

4. Preparation of documentation and obtaining administrative approvals

Each investment requires the appropriate permits and approvals. At the next stage, we submit applications to the relevant authorities, such as:

• • Application for a decision on environmental conditions (EIA),
  • Application for issuance of development conditions or amendments to the local zoning plan (if necessary)**.

** Distances from buildings and other structures (warehouse interpreted as a building):

• • At least 4 meters from the forest boundary,
  • At least 8 meters between exterior walls,
  • At least 3 meters from the plot boundary,
  • Distances resulting from acoustic analysis.

5. Obtaining connection conditions

In order for the energy storage facility to be connected to the grid, it is necessary to obtain connection conditions. To do this, we submit an application to the grid operator, for their issuance or update***. It should include:

• • Technical attachments,
  • Document confirming the legal title to the land,
  • Registration/basic maps,
  • Situation sketch,
  • Electrical diagram,
  • Energy storage parameters in terms of harmonic content,
  • Data sheets and certificates, including NC RfG certificate.

*** If you wish to retrofit an existing micro-installation with energy storage, you must:

• • submit an application to upgrade the micro-installation, where the installed capacity will not exceed the contractual power issued for the facility, and the total installed capacity will not exceed 50 kW,
  • file an application for an increase in the contractual power if the installed power exceeds the power issued for the end customer,
  • file an application for the issuance of conditions for connection to the grid for a source of electricity and attach an annex specifying the parameters of the energy storage.

6. Application to the ERO for a promise of a license (optional)

In some cases, when the installation goes beyond the definition of a micro-installation, you may be required to apply to the Energy Regulatory Office (ERO) for a promise of a license to generate electricity, such as when the energy storage exceeds the capacity of 50 kW or you plan to sell energy to the grid.

7. Implementation of the investment

This is divided into several key stages, which include:

• • Submitting an application for a construction permit (if necessary)****,
  • Designing cable line routes and connection,
  • Designing access roads (if necessary),
  • Conducting FAT and SAT tests,
  • Acceptance of the construction by the relevant authorities, such as the Fire Department, the Public Works Department, and obtaining an occupancy permit.

**** The construction permit is:

• • Not required when: a containerized energy storage facility is considered a temporary construction object (it must be unattached to the ground and be used for a shorter period than its life span, but up to 180 days), the time of use and the time of demolition of the facility is determined by the architectural and construction administration (Art. 28 of the Construction Law), and for storage facilities below 20kW capacity (then the installation plan and compliance of the installation plan with the construction regulations are attached to the application for a construction permit)
  • Required when: Container standing on foundations, scheduled for more than 180 days or exceeds 20kW capacity

8. Conclusion of comprehensive agreements

Upon completion of the installation, it is necessary to conclude new or updated contracts for distribution, energy sales and use of energy for own consumption.

9. Concluding service agreements

The next step is to conclude service contracts to ensure efficient operation and maintenance of the energy storage, which is key to its long-term effectiveness.

10. Reporting of energy storage operation (only in selected cases)

In some cases, energy storage operation reporting may be required to monitor its efficiency and compliance with established standards.

Summary

The process of installing such a large installation as an industrial energy storage facility is complex and multi-step. Starting from the analysis of energy needs, through obtaining all administrative approvals, to the implementation of the investment and servicing – each step is crucial to the success of the project. That’s why it’s worth taking advantage of a comprehensive service that will ensure that the entire process goes smoothly and without disruption.