Regulatory policies for enhancing grid stability through the integration of renewable energy and battery energy storage systems (BESS)

Oluwadayomi Akinsooto 1, *, Olorunshogo Benjamin Ogundipe 2 and Samuel Ikemba 3

1 EDF SA (Pty) Ltd, South Africa.
2 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun-State, Nigeria.
3 Department of Energy Research and Infrastructure Development, Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission, Abuja, Nigeria.
 
Review
International Journal of Frontline Research and Reviews, 2024, 02(02), 022–044.
Article DOI: 10.56355/ijfrr.2024.2.2.0023
 
Publication history: 
Received on 19 July 2024; revised on 26 August 2024; accepted on 29 August 2024
 
Abstract: 
The increasing penetration of renewable energy sources (RES) into the electrical grid presents significant challenges for maintaining grid stability due to the intermittent and variable nature of these energy sources. Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) have emerged as a crucial technology for mitigating these challenges by providing grid services such as frequency regulation, load balancing, and energy arbitrage. This paper explores regulatory policies aimed at enhancing grid stability through the strategic integration of RES and BESS. It examines the current regulatory landscape, identifying gaps and barriers that impede the full deployment of BESS alongside renewable energy. The paper also discusses policy frameworks that encourage the adoption of advanced energy storage technologies, including financial incentives, standardization of grid interconnection protocols, and the establishment of performance metrics for grid support services provided by BESS. Furthermore, it evaluates case studies where regulatory initiatives have successfully facilitated the integration of BESS with renewable energy, leading to improved grid stability and resilience. The paper concludes by offering recommendations for policymakers to create a supportive regulatory environment that balances the need for grid reliability with the growth of renewable energy. These recommendations include fostering collaboration between stakeholders, enhancing grid infrastructure to accommodate BESS, and ensuring that regulatory policies are adaptable to technological advancements. By aligning regulatory policies with the capabilities of BESS, it is possible to significantly enhance grid stability while accelerating the transition to a sustainable energy future.
 
Keywords: 
Grid Stability; Renewable Energy; Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS); Regulatory Policies; Energy Storage; Grid Integration; Energy Transition; Frequency Regulation; Load Balancing; Grid Resilience
 
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