In the rapidly evolving landscape of business energy solutions, the integration of solar power is a proven strategy. However, as businesses set ambitious renewable targets, relying solely on daytime solar generation becomes insufficient.
In the past few years feed-in tariffs (FIT) have been slashed, afternoon spot prices are skyrocketing and rolling blackouts are predicted for summer . The Australian energy market has changed so dramatically that many businesses are spending as much on energy today as they were before installing solar.
This is where commercial battery storage steps in as a game-changer.
Executive General Manager Max Stenning from Smart Commercial Solar takes us through why businesses should act now and adopt battery storage to complement their existing or planned solar power systems.
Enhancing Energy Independence
The primary motivation for businesses to invest in battery storage is the ability to enhance energy independence. By storing excess solar energy generated during the day, businesses can reduce their reliance on the grid during peak periods and ensure a consistent power supply even when the sun isn’t shining. This translates to increased control over energy consumption and a more reliable and resilient energy infrastructure. We only need to look to South Africa’s current situation to appreciate the critical need for Australian businesses to be planning how they can achieve energy independence today.
Maximising Cost Savings
Commercial battery storage offers a direct and impactful avenue for businesses to maximise cost savings on electricity bills. By strategically deploying stored energy during peak demand hours, businesses can significantly reduce peak demand charges imposed by utility providers. As the cost of batteries continues to decrease, the financial benefits become increasingly attractive, with shorter payback periods and long-term savings.
Strengthening Energy Resilience
In an era where uninterrupted power is critical for various industries, battery storage provides an effective solution for strengthening energy resilience. Configured to serve as backup power during grid outages or emergencies, battery systems ensure continuous operations for businesses in sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, and telecommunications. The ability to seamlessly transition to stored energy in times of need safeguards against potential financial losses associated with power disruptions. This is especially important for businesses who rely on refrigeration such as cold chain logistics, or those such as Aged Care centres whose energy supply powers life-saving machinery.
Embracing Sustainability Goals
Beyond immediate financial gains, the adoption of battery storage aligns with businesses’ sustainability goals. By incorporating stored solar energy into their power supply, businesses actively contribute to reducing their carbon footprint. This environmentally responsible approach not only meets the expectations of eco-conscious consumers but also positions businesses as proactive contributors to global sustainability efforts.
Support Australian Innovation
Australia stands at the forefront of the global shift towards embracing Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) technology, particularly highlighted by the Energy Renaissance gigafactory in Tomago, NSW. This visionary initiative is a major force in innovation and advanced manufacturing, capable of producing an impressive 5.3-gigawatt hours of energy storage annually.
Beyond its significant production capacity, the gigafactory contributes to regional development, employing 700 individuals and fostering skills in Australian manufacturing while championing sustainability. As a result, Australia is well-poised to lead the charge in the battery industry, showcasing its commitment to clean, reliable, and affordable energy solutions on a global scale.
So: is now the right time for your business?
For businesses already reaping the benefits of solar installations, the integration of battery storage is a logical and timely progression. The current energy landscape, marked by increasing uncertainty in the long-term view of Australia’s energy market, makes battery storage a strategic necessity.
If your business has observed a notable surge in energy rates and already harnesses solar power, now is the opportune moment to conduct a battery feasibility study. This study serves as a valuable tool in understanding the latest economic and environmental dynamics, helping businesses make informed decisions about the incorporation of battery storage into their energy infrastructure.
No solar? No problems. Speak to your renewable energy expert about integrating custom-designed, appropriate battery storage into your energy infrastructure from the get-go and start saving sooner.
The synergy between solar power and battery storage is not just a technological advancement; it’s a strategic imperative for businesses aiming to thrive in a dynamic energy landscape. The enhanced energy independence, substantial cost savings, strengthened resilience, and alignment with sustainability goals make the adoption of battery storage a compelling proposition for businesses today.
