Victorian network operator SP AusNet has commissioned a 1MW-1MWh battery energy storage facility that could supply additional capacity during high demand periods to offset or delay network upgrades.
A consortium of ABB and Samsung was awarded a contract to supply a hybrid Grid Energy Storage and Diesel Generation System (GESS) to SP AusNet for its electricity distribution network in Victoria.
The system will be a pilot plant for potential future grid-integrated generation and storage systems.
The GESS provides peak demand management, active and reactive power support and other power quality functions, when the network is connected. It can also provide power as part of a mini grid when parts of the network become isolated.
The battery system and smart inverter are the primary energy source, while the diesel generator acts as back-up to extend the capacity available. The system must comply with the distribution grid codes when grid connected,
must transition into island mode when the network controller gives the command, and must switch back to grid-connected operation without any power supply interruption.
ABB’s scope of supply includes the design, engineering, construction, testing and supply of the ABB’s PowerStore-Battery System and a 3MVA transformer to be integrated with the diesel generator.
The plant is managed by ABB’s Microgrid Plus System and is implemented as a transportable power station consisting of seven outdoor containers and kiosks.
The project is due to be completed in 2014. ABB will continue to support SP AusNet with an ongoing service and maintenance contract for a further two years after final commissioning of the Embedded Generation system.
