Technologies

Yes, when designed, installed, and operated according to rigorous industry standards and local regulations, battery energy storage systems (BESS) are safe and reliable. With all RIC Energy’s projects involving electricity and energy storage, they require careful planning and proper safety measures.

Modern battery systems are equipped with multiple layers of safety protections, including temperature controls, fire suppression systems, and remote monitoring. We work closely with fire departments, local permitting authorities, and engineering experts to ensure each project meets or exceeds all safety codes and minimize risk.

BESS projects use solid battery cells that, like in cell phones, do not contain any liquids that could contaminate water systems.

BESS projects are monitored remotely 24 hours a day. The facility can be disconnected remotely by the project operator and the utility. It can also be disconnected locally by the utility and potentially first responders (if they choose to accept training to do so). In any event, contact information is provided to the local first responders so they can reach the 24-hour operators to request disconnect.

A sophisticated grounding design will be put in as part of construction and installation. This will provide protection to assure that the energy from a lightning strike is not transferred into the battery system.

The batteries go through a full cycle of charging and discharging every day. They charge during off-peak hours and discharge daily during the afternoon peak.

Charging Phase:

• When electricity demand is low or energy generation is high, the BESS stores excess electricity from the grid.
• Energy is then converted from AC to DC and stored in the battery cells.

Discharging Phase:

• During peak demand or when the grid needs extra power, the BESS releases stored electricity.
• The stored DC power is converted back to AC and supplied to the grid or local consumers.

While there is need for periodic weed control in and around the fence line of the project, this is managed by hand and machine without the need for herbicides.

Yes, batteries are recycled at the end of their useful life.

BESS project areas are small (less than 1/5 of an acre) and seek to replicate the existing stormwater flows for every site.

The equipment produces a low level of noise, but it is typically not heard outside of the immediate area of the system. It doesn’t cause any disturbance to nearby homes or properties.

The battery storage equipment comes with a performance guarantee of up to 20 years, and with regular maintenance and occasional upgrades, the equipment life can often be extended longer.