Virtual Power Plant, VPP Solution
With the UK’s continued investment in renewable energy and ongoing reforms in the electricity market, the demand for flexible resources is steadily increasing. The Greenwood Energy Storage Project, located in the southeast of England, aims to build a large-scale energy storage system to provide frequency and voltage regulation services, participate in electricity market trading, and perform peak shaving and load leveling. Utilizing the concept of a Virtual Power Plant (VPP), the project will integrate multiple distributed energy storage resources to collectively support the grid, enhancing stability and reliability, and driving the UK towards a more sustainable energy future.
Project Overview
Available Only Through Renon Power
Regional Power Market Overview
Where High Energy Demand Meets Renewable Integration
Situated near London’s outskirts, this region is a key hub for power demand and renewable energy generation. With numerous commercial and industrial users, the area requires stable and high-quality electricity. The rise of wind and solar power increases the need for flexible resources to balance the grid. Advanced energy storage solutions are crucial for maintaining grid stability and supporting the region’s sustainable energy future.
Key Functional Advantages
Optimizing the Grid, Enhancing Value
Smart energy storage systems enhance grid stability by offering fast frequency and voltage regulation services, participating in wholesale markets, and providing flexible resources for ancillary services. They also perform peak shaving by storing excess energy and releasing it during peak demand, reducing strain on the grid. By integrating multiple distributed energy resources, virtual power plants optimize resource use and economic returns in the energy market.
Technical Features Overview
Smart Dispatch for Enhanced Power Management
The project features a total storage capacity of 52 MWh, utilizing 224 distributed 233 kWh storage units configured into 14 arrays. Each unit includes a 125 kW power conversion system (PCS), supporting a maximum output of 25 MW. The virtual power plant platform integrates these units, enabling unified management and smart dispatch of resources, enhancing grid flexibility and overall system efficiency.
Seismic Safety Design and Benefits
Safety First, Dual Benefits of Economy and Sustainability
Although seismic risk in the UK is low, the project incorporates safety measures such as secure equipment anchoring, structural assessments, electrical safety protections, fire prevention, and regular maintenance to ensure reliable operation. Economically, the energy storage system generates additional revenue through market participation. Socially, it enhances grid stability and reduces carbon emissions, aligning with the UK’s environmental goals.
Smart Management and Market Benefits
Smart Dispatch, Optimized Returns
Smart energy management uses advanced software to monitor and dynamically dispatch power based on actual needs. By participating in the wholesale market, the system adjusts charge and discharge strategies in response to market price signals, maximizing economic returns. Its rapid response capabilities provide valuable frequency regulation services to the grid, enhancing overall stability.
Greenwood Energy Storage Project Overview
Efficient Storage, Powering a Green Future
The Greenwood Energy Storage Project integrates high-performance storage with virtual power plant technology to provide stable power to Southeast England. Offering frequency regulation, market participation, and peak shaving services, it boosts grid flexibility and reliability while generating economic returns. The virtual power plant platform enhances overall system efficiency and value, supporting regional sustainability.
Core Component Selection
Available Only Through Renon Power
Battery System Selection
Selection: RENON’s 233kWh liquid-cooled system.
Configuration: Each system includes liquid-cooled battery modules, cooling unit, BMS, modular PCS, and EMS. Configured as 14 arrays with 16 units each, totaling 224 units.
Rationale: Chosen for its advanced cooling and integrated design, meeting the frequency regulation needs.
The system uses 46kWh liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery packs, with five modules forming a 233kWh system integrated with a 125kW PCS (Power Conversion System), ensuring efficient energy storage and conversion. The integrated EMS (Energy Management System) supports remote monitoring and optimized energy scheduling, enabling intelligent management of the system.
Intelligent AC Distribution System
The system features intelligent AC distribution, with each array supporting up to 16 units of 233kWh for AC coupling. It includes a site-level EMS management system, providing smart control and optimization of power distribution and energy flow.
Advanced Thermal Management
The battery modules use liquid cooling technology for efficient heat dissipation, maintaining cell temperature differences within 4 degrees, significantly extending battery lifespan. The liquid cooling system is highly efficient, consuming less energy than traditional air conditioning, greatly enhancing the overall return on investment of the system.
System Advantages
Smart and Remote Monitoring
The system integrates intelligent energy management with a remote monitoring platform, allowing farm managers to monitor system status in real-time and optimize maintenance strategies, enhancing overall operational efficiency.
Environmental and Energy Efficiency
The system utilizes clean energy, reducing carbon emissions and aligning with the principles of green and sustainable community development. The battery cooling system features an energy-efficient design that minimizes energy waste and meets environmental standards.
Safety Assurance
The system is equipped with an advanced fire prevention system that effectively prevents and controls fires, minimizing the risk of property damage and personal injury. The design includes multiple layers of safety protection to ensure safe operation under various conditions.
