Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) and the US Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) have introduced groundbreaking tools aimed at simplifying complex energy analysis and enhancing energy storage solutions.
Announced as part of RMI’s Energy Transition Academy (ETA), the unveiling of these tools marks a significant milestone in empowering energy leaders with essential skills and resources to drive energy transition priorities worldwide.
System Advisor Model (SAM): Empowering Decision-Making
A highlight of the launch is the System Advisor Model (SAM), a user-friendly techno-economic computer model designed to calculate the performance and financial metrics of renewable energy projects. SAM facilitates analysis of grid-connected solar, wind, or geothermal power projects of any scale, aiding decision-makers in assessing cost, performance, and financing aspects. Its versatility makes it a valuable asset for various stakeholders, enabling comprehensive analysis for informed decision-making.
Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Guide: Streamlining Integration
Recognizing the pivotal role of energy storage in the transition to a low-carbon economy, RMI and NREL have developed a comprehensive guide on operating and maintaining battery energy storage systems (BESS). Addressing current barriers hindering the connection of energy storage systems to distribution grids, the guide offers insights into commercially available battery technologies, use cases, and best practices for operation and maintenance. By facilitating the integration of battery energy storage systems, the guide aims to catalyze advancements in the evolving power landscape.
Through collaboration with regional and international partners, including the Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation (CARILEC) and the Lagos Energy Academy, the ETA delivers training opportunities and resources tailored to local training needs. The SAM course and BESS guide were developed in response to high demand from utilities in the Caribbean and Nigeria, reflecting the growing need for tools to model and develop business cases for solar plus battery storage systems.
With the demand for renewable energy expected to surge in the coming years, the introduction of SAM and the BESS guide equips the global energy community with the necessary tools to analyze and deploy renewable technologies effectively. These advancements are poised to contribute significantly to sustainable and efficient energy solutions, driving the transition towards a cleaner energy future.
