Battery Storage System Costs – What Affects the Price?
So you’ve decided to invest in a battery energy storage system. You might already know the impact you want to achieve, have a clear application in mind (like self-sufficiency or frequency support), and understand the design you’re seeking. However, understanding what differentiates all the systems and thinking like an investor can be challenging. In this article, you will learn the key pricing factors for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) for any project.
Capacity Determines the Initial Price
The first step is to decide on the capacity of your system, or how much energy it will store. The cost is based on the required kilowatt-hours. This amount depends on the system’s intended use. For example, if you plan to use the BESS for grid balancing, you will need to store more energy to maximize the system’s effectiveness.
Factors Influencing the Price
The design phase is critical. Engineers consider your preferences for capacity, size, color, and environmental factors. Safety is a major consideration, with most Sparq containers featuring:
- Air or Liquid cooling systems
- Aerosol fire extinguishing systems
- Pressure relief valves
- Temperature, smoke, gas, and humidity sensors
- Water alarm sensors for leak detection
As an investor, prioritize safety and avoid cutting corners. Your choice of cooling system, whether liquid or air, will also impact costs. Learn more about this in our article “Liquid vs Air Cooling System – Why Does It Matter?”
Specially Designed BESS
Some situations require custom solutions. For instance, a BESS may need to be installed in a hard-to-reach location with narrow spaces. Sparq’s modular systems allow for flexibility, with battery modules that can be added or removed to adjust capacity. This modularity enables capacity expansion without a full system replacement, reducing long-term costs.
Turnkey Solutions for ESS Clients
Complex BESS projects might require extensive design, construction, installation, commissioning, and maintenance. These projects involve numerous professionals, such as battery designers, engineers, electricians, and project managers, which can increase costs. However, turnkey solutions offer several benefits:
- A single supplier manages the entire project.
- Assurance of system performance and reliability.
- Maintenance handled by the supplier, eliminating the need for client expertise.
Supply Chain – A Key Price Indicator
The supply chain, from design to delivery, impacts the final price. BESS involves lithium batteries, classified as dangerous goods, requiring specific documentation for shipping. Factors considered by the project manager include:
- Container construction for safe handling by lift equipment.
- Secure packing to prevent damage during transportation.
- Necessary documentation for each country of transit.
- Compliance with import regulations upon arrival.
- All required certifications (UN38,3, MSDS, CE, IEC 62619)
Project-Based Pricing at Sparq
Investing in a battery storage system involves many choices, from energy capacity to design specifics. Besides our standard solutions Sparq makes customized systems to meet specific needs, allowing you to adjust various aspects and potentially lower costs based on your conditions.
How Can We Help?
At Sparq, we have extensive experience with cost-efficient, high-ROI projects. We can assist with:
- Design and project management: With over 35 years of expertise, our in-house engineers provide 3D models based on your requirements.
- System modeling and construction: We collaborate with battery manufacturer partners to create a system tailored to your feedback.
- Delivery and installation: We ensure the system is delivered and installed on-site.
- Grid connection: Our systems, equipped with Sinexcel- PCS
with open protocols, are designed for multiple purposes, including frequency regulation. - Commissioning: Our team assists with test wiring, configuration, and data traffic checking.
- Support and delivery of EMS (Energy Management System) for controlling the BESS.
- Support and maintenance: We offer ongoing support and maintenance plans, ensuring correct data detection, fire system control, and more.