Project background and objectives
ENSTRA a.s., a district heating operator in Zvolen, opted for an innovative solution designed to increase the energy flexibility and efficiency of its entire system. The project integrated a modern indoor battery energy storage system rated at 550 kW and 1,118 kWh, strategically connected to the existing CHP unit. The solution optimises the use of cogenerated energy while opening up opportunities for efficient electricity trading.
Solution and technical specification
The core of the project is a high-performance battery storage system designed to meet the demanding requirements of district heating and to work in synergy with the CHP unit. Key technical parameters of the system:
- Power: 550 kW
- Capacity: 1,118 kWh
These parameters ensure that the system can efficiently store surplus energy generated by cogeneration and then use it during peak periods or when market conditions are more favourable.
Functionality and benefits
- CHP optimisation: surplus energy generated by the CHP unit is stored efficiently, maximising the use of own generation and reducing dependence on external suppliers.
- Electricity trading: stored energy makes it possible to respond flexibly to changing market prices – energy is stored when prices are low and used or sold when prices are higher, improving economic efficiency.
- Flexibility and stability: the system's rapid adaptation to changes in electricity supply and demand helps stabilise the distribution grid and lowers operating costs.
- Energy self-sufficiency: combining cogeneration with modern storage increases energy independence and optimises energy consumption across the whole system.
Control software and integration
To ensure smooth operation and maximum efficiency, an advanced control software solution was implemented in the system. This software:
- continuously monitors the status and performance of the battery storage system,
- optimises charging and discharging based on current operating and market conditions,
- ensures seamless integration with the CHP unit and other district heating assets,
- enables dynamic control of the entire system, contributing to greater operational flexibility and reliability.
Outcome and outlook
By implementing an indoor battery storage system with 550 kW of power and 1,118 kWh of capacity, ENSTRA a.s. has taken its district heating operations to a new level. The completed project delivers:
- more efficient use of cogenerated energy – storing surplus energy reduces waste and increases the usability of own generation,
- optimised electricity trading – dynamic control of the storage system enables a flexible response to market conditions and maximises economic returns,
- greater flexibility and stability of the entire system – the ability to adapt quickly to changing conditions improves the overall reliability and efficiency of energy management.
The project represents a modern approach to energy management in district heating, combining traditional cogeneration technology with state-of-the-art battery storage solutions.
