Battery Energy Storage – shaping a sustainable future
Finding effective and sustainable methods to store and use energy has become essential in today’s world of political and economic uncertainty. Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) appear as an important solution for businesses across Europe. But how does battery storage work in practice? What additional benefits does it offer beyond storing energy for later use? Our experts in engineering and product management explain it all!
How does battery storage work?
Battery storage is the process of storing energy for later use. It allows energy from various sources, including renewables, to be stored efficiently and deployed when needed. BESS utilizes excess energy produced during peak output periods and releases it during high demand or when renewable sources like solar or wind are unavailable.
“The battery business is advancing extremely quickly, leading to lower costs for companies investing in battery storage. BESS supports energy independence, grid balancing, reduces reliance on fossil fuels, and delivers significant financial savings,” says Frédéric Coosemans, BESS specialist at Sparq Technology.
Benefits of Battery Energy Storage
- Backup Power for Enhanced Grid Resilience
Battery storage prevents power interruptions and ensures continuous operation of critical services like hospitals and data centers by enhancing grid resilience.
- Peak Shaving – Cost Optimization for Energy Use
BESS optimizes energy consumption by charging electric vehicles and smoothing out energy peaks, leading to lower energy costs and more efficient usage.
- Ancillary Services – Supporting the Grid & Earning Revenue
Businesses can contribute to grid stability by supplying excess energy, opening opportunities for additional revenue streams.
- Powering Heavy Machinery for Industrial Applications
BESS helps power industrial machinery, reducing the risk of costly disruptions. It also offers a clean and silent alternative to traditional generators, cutting down noise and pollution.
- Accelerating the Green Transition
Battery energy storage enables independence from fossil fuels by integrating with renewable sources like solar and wind power, promoting a cleaner energy future.
Types of Battery Energy Storage System
With various businesses offering BESS technology, it may be difficult to find the right solution. Here are key considerations when selecting a BESS:
Battery Technology & Safety
Lithium-ion batteries are the most common for energy storage due to their high energy density. However, thermal management and monitoring systems are essential to prevent overheating and ensure safety. Learn more in our article: Safe Battery Storage.
Warranty & Lifespan
All batteries degrade over time. Understanding the estimated lifespan and warranty helps in planning and budgeting for long-term energy solutions.
Environmental Considerations
Proper site planning and preparation are vital for a BESS installation. Historical weather data should be analyzed to mitigate risks from extreme temperatures and environmental challenges.
Regulatory Compliance in Europe
Pay attention to the documentation provided by the battery supplier. Always check for compliance with standards like EN, IEC, UL, or RoHS. New battery regulations coming into force in 2026 require a digital battery passport accessible via a QR code attached to batteries within a BESS. This passport must provide information on aspects such as heritage and CO2 footprint. From 2031, it will also be mandatory for batteries to contain a minimum proportion of recycled materials, which must be detailed within the QR code.
Liquid-Cooled vs. Air-Cooled BESS
A cooling system is essential for battery performance and safety. Depending on design and operational requirements, BESS can be air-cooled or liquid-cooled. Read more in our article: Liquid-Cooled vs. Air-Cooled BESS.
Custom Battery Design vs. Standard BESS Solutions
At Sparq Technology, we offer both customized and standard BESS solutions. Battery storage can be tailored for specific environments with options for size adjustments, custom designs, and optimized energy management systems (EMS). Our all-in-one containerized design includes all necessary components such as PCS, cooling, fire fighting system, and a smart controller for both on-grid and off-grid applications.
Investing in Battery Energy Storage is a smart and sustainable decision for businesses looking to optimize energy usage, cut costs, and support the transition to renewable energy. Whether you need a turnkey solution or a custom-designed system, Sparq Technology has the expertise to guide you.