Unlocking the Benefits of Cycle Charging for Sustainable Energy Solutions

In Australia's expanding market for battery solutions, there's considerable excitement about integrating batteries into construction environments. Over the past few years, an increasing number of environmentally aware builders are seeking methods to lessen their dependence on diesel and embrace eco-friendly alternatives.

A prime illustration is the rise of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), which provide on-demand, low-emission power storage. But what exactly does cycle charging involve? And crucially, does it qualify as an environmentally sound practice?

For this discussion, we'll draw on actual performance metrics from a BESS deployment at a major building project in Adelaide.

Our focus here is on the cycle charging mechanism within BESS devices, evaluating its environmental credentials and implications for building sites.

Capital costs for large-scale BESS improved the most out of the energy transition technologies. Image: Fluence.

Defining Cycle Charging

Consider a scenario where a BESS is linked to a diesel generator to energise a temporary administrative site hut complex.

Cycle Charging (CC) occurs when the battery assumes primary responsibility for supplying power to the site, with the generator stepping in only to recharge as needed. Essentially, the battery acts as an intermediary between the energy demand (the site) and the diesel source.

You can customise generator activation by setting the battery's State of Charge (SOC) thresholds. For instance, programme it to engage the generator when SOC drops to 22%.

At that point, the battery signals the generator to activate, allowing it to warm up before initiating the recharge. During this phase, the battery continues to support the site's power needs.

Once SOC climbs to 98%, the battery instructs the generator to stop, cool off, and shut down. The battery then resumes full supply duties until SOC hits the low threshold again.

This loop defines cycle charging.

Eku Energy has developed several utility-scale BESS across Australia, including the 400 MWh Rangebank BESS (pictured) in Victoria. Image: Eku Energy.

Advantages of Implementing Cycle Charging

In our site example, CC substantially cut diesel usage and rather than 24/7 generator operation, it ran for roughly 30% of the day.

Outcomes vary by demand levels, which we assess per project during setup. Nonetheless, the battery extends generator downtime considerably. Here's a conceptual chart based on observed data:

Actual metrics from a confidential top-tier Adelaide development

The chart illustrates demand patterns (red), battery SOC fluctuations (blue), and generator activity (green).

Evidently, the site minimised generator hours through battery-enabled CC. Key gains included:

• Lowered fuel expenditure

• Extended intervals for maintenance and refills

• Efficient generator performance (avoiding issues like glazing from underloading)

• Quiet operation for much of the time

Although we highlighted an office setup, CC advantages hinge on factors like site specifics. That's why Riverstone Advisory evaluates your project's requirements to deliver tailored recommendations.

Overall, batteries mitigate common diesel challenges on sites, particularly with variable demands.

To learn more about BESS advantages for your builds, get in touch.

Is Cycle Charging Truly Eco-Friendly?

It's not straightforward.

Positively, CC offers a straightforward path to curbing emissions. Data shows it slashes generator runtime, leading to major fuel and pollution reductions. Plus, when active, the generator operates at peak efficiency, boosting sustainability. Thus, it can be viewed as green.

However, green doesn't equate to fully renewable. BESS excels at holding clean energy, but sole dependence on solar or wind isn't always feasible. For all BESS, a diesel backup is typical. Until alternatives like Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO) or other biofuels become standard, fossil elements persist.

Yet, this highlights CC's promise: it facilitates gradual shifts to HVO or solar additions where practical, further diminishing diesel needs.

Begin Your Shift to Cleaner Power – Contact Us Now

With net-zero ambitions accelerating, construction operations must leverage accessible tools like BESS to drive change. The emphasis is on initiation. Riverstone Advisory is equipped to guide your sustainability efforts and propel Australia's building sector towards innovative, efficient practices. Reach out to our experts today.

Embrace the opportunity to shift to cleaner energy. Reach out to us to explore how cycle charging can meet your needs and benefit the environment. Together, we can harness the potential of sustainable energy solutions and work towards a greener future.