Convenience Store Solution
This project will deploy an advanced energy storage system for a central Texas convenience store located on a busy highway, serving both passing vehicles and the local community. Given the store's reliance on stable power and the impact of frequent extreme weather on the grid, the solution combines photovoltaic and storage systems to enable self-sufficient energy use and ensure backup power during outages.
Project Overview
Available Only Through Renon Power
Geographical Location & Environmental Factors
Challenges & Energy Demand
Situated in central Texas, the project faces the dual challenges of extreme heat in summer and severe cold in winter. This region experiences peak energy demand, particularly during hot summers when air conditioning load surges, placing pressure on the grid.
Local Electricity Pricing
Renon Power’s Strategy for Texas' Fluctuating Electricity Prices
The Texas electricity market, governed by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), is a highly competitive wholesale market with significant price volatility. During peak demand periods, electricity prices can spike, increasing operational costs for the convenience store. The energy storage system will mitigate this by charging during off-peak periods and discharging during peak times to reduce electricity expenses.
Photovoltaic System
Harnessing Solar Power with Rooftop Panels
Rooftop solar panels will be installed to generate solar energy, covering most of the convenience store s daily power needs.
Energy Storage System
Optimizing Energy Storage for Continuous Supply
A battery system with 30kW power and 60kWh storage capacity will store excess energy and provide power during nighttime or cloudy days.
Intelligent Management and Monitoring
Smart Energy Management and Monitoring
An intelligent energy management system will optimize the coordination of solar and storage systems using real-time electricity prices and weather data, maximizing economic efficiency.
A remote monitoring platform will be established to regularly check system performance and quickly address potential issues, ensuring long-term stability.
Boosting Energy Independence and Resilience
Enhancing Service Reliability through Energy Independence
Through this configuration, the convenience store will significantly reduce its reliance on the traditional grid, enhance energy efficiency, and strengthen its power resilience, providing more reliable service to both customers and the community.
Core Component Selection
Renon Power Specialization
Battery Capacity
Selection: 60kWh battery capacity.
Rationale: The 60kWh capacity was chosen based on the convenience store s average daily power consumption and emergency backup requirements, ensuring adequate power supply during non-peak hours and several hours to half a day of operation during outages.
Benefits: This battery capacity meets daily energy needs, provides reliable backup during power outages, and ensures continuous operation of critical functions.
Advantage: The 60kWh battery reduces grid reliance, enhances operational resilience, and maintains business continuity during emergencies.
PCS Power Configuration
Selection: 30kW Power Conversion System (PCS) with MPPT and STS.
Rationale: The 30kW PCS was selected for its ability to charge the battery from both the grid and solar array and to convert battery-stored DC power into AC for store use, efficiently managing peak power demands.
Benefits: This configuration provides dual functionality, supports high-efficiency charging and discharging, and ensures rapid response to power needs.
Advantage: The 30kW PCS enhances power management flexibility, improves energy efficiency, and supports reliable operation during peak and emergency conditions.
Photovoltaic Panel Configuration
Selection: 15kW photovoltaic array.
Rationale: The 15kW solar array was chosen based on local sunlight intensity and available rooftop space, with an expected daily generation of 75kWh from approximately 5 hours of sunlight.
Benefits: This setup maximizes solar energy utilization, reduces reliance on the grid, and enables battery charging during the day for use at night.
Advantage: The 15kW photovoltaic array effectively leverages solar power, providing a sustainable energy source and minimizing operational costs.
High-quality battery cells combined with smart management extend battery life and reduce operational costs. The system promotes sustainability by using solar energy and provides real-time monitoring for proactive maintenance, enhancing overall efficiency and ease of use.
Enhanced Safety and Flexible Operation
Equipped with smoke detectors and aerosol fire suppression, the system offers robust safety measures. It supports seamless integration with photovoltaic panels and diesel generators, allowing flexible energy switching to enhance stability.
Intelligent Management and Thermal Control
The system features an advanced Battery Management System (BMS) that monitors key parameters to maintain optimal battery performance and lifespan. Integrated thermal management with efficient cooling ensures safe operation even in extreme temperatures, preventing overheating and maintaining reliability.
System Advantages
Smart Maintenance and User-Friendly Design
Integrated BMS and remote monitoring enable real-time battery management and preventive maintenance, minimizing downtime. The intuitive system design makes it easy for staff to operate, reducing training costs.
Comprehensive Safety and Sustainability
Robust safety measures ensure stable operation in extreme conditions, minimizing fire risks and protecting assets. Solar self-consumption reduces dependence on fossil fuels and lowers carbon emissions, supporting sustainability goals.
High Performance and Longevity
The system uses high-quality battery cells with intelligent BMS and thermal management to enhance battery life and energy density, reducing total cost of ownership (TCO).
