Potential of battery energy storage systems to avoid grid expansion in the low-voltage grid

Abstract:
Due to the goals of the energy transition, there is a massive need for grid expansion in low-voltage grids as a result of the integration of a large number of photovoltaic systems. Grid expansion is associated with high investment costs and a great deal of time for distribution grid operators. Approaches to grid optimization, such as the grid-friendly control of battery energy storage systems, make it possible to postpone or avoid grid expansion. In this paper, simulations of a real low-voltage grid are used to illustrate the future need for grid expansion and show how grid expansion can be postponed or avoided through the grid-friendly control of battery energy storage systems. The comparative analysis of the simulation results shows that future grid expansion can be both postponed and avoided by the grid-friendly control of battery energy storage systems.