Batteries can alleviate capacity shortages in the grid and facilitate the electrification of society. However, the technology is not widely used. Many grid companies have long queues to connect batteries.
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"Batteries are not a threat to the grid, they are part of the solution. With the right management, they create space in the grid for the few hours a year it is needed," says Anna Werner, CEO of Solenergi.
New report shows solutions
The report, "Grid connection of battery storage," highlights several structural barriers to more batteries on the grid. Grid owners cite a lack of space in the grids and the fact that they cannot predict how batteries will be used to help or hinder the grid. However, according to the Swedish Energy Markets Inspectorate (Ei), there are a number of possible tools to manage batteries in a way that they provide space when needed, such as customized tariffs and flexibility procurement.
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The report examines the tools used by electricity grid companies to use batteries to create flexibility in the electricity grid. The study shows that their use is very limited, which is partly explained by the fact that grid companies find it difficult to apply them.
Suggested proposals
Swedish Solar Energy therefore suggests that
- The revenue framework for the grid companies is changed so that it favors flexibility before the grid is expanded.
- Grid companies use the tools proposed by Ei so that batteries can be used to create more space in the grid.
- Grid companies will be prohibited from refusing connections due to lack of capacity.
The report is the first major review of the regulatory framework for connecting batteries to the grid in Sweden. (hcn)
