Energy Arbitrage Case Study

Gas Station: California, USA

Problem

A gas station constantly has high grid purchasing costs from excessive power demand. Demand charge is the largest part of the bill especially when a lot of power is used in a short period of time.

Solution

Using solar energy is a viable way to help solve the problem of power demand, and the way to use solar power system at highest efficiency is connecting it to a battery energy storage system (BESS). Though peak demand is unpredictable, the power generated by solar panel could be optimally used to respond to the peak demand conditions.

Using our advanced battery energy storage system rated at 300kWh/100kW connected to a 77kW solar power system, this setup has multiple functions. During the off-peak hours, the gas station will be powered by solar while charging the BESS system. During on peak hours, both solar and BESS are used to prevent hitting the power demand. With an initial cost of $288,600 and an electricity rate of $0.16/kWh with an assumed 8 hours of sunshine per day, the annual savings is expected to be $38,974 after a demand reduction of $3000.

Initial CostDaily usageAnnual SavingsPayback
$288,6008 hours$38,974~4 years

About The System

This Non-Wire Alternative System can be relocated between substations to reliably provide power, compensate for inadequate systems or provide backup in emergency conditions.

The system comprises of a 300 kWh/100kW BESS connected with a 77kW solar power system. This setup will be able to support demands of the local building during peak hours through BESS or solar PV system, while the BESS will charge during off-peak hours through solar PV or the grid.

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