What is a solar energy storage system?

An Energy Storage System (ESS) allows businesses to store electricity generated by solar panels and use it when it’s most economically advantageous—during peak demand periods or grid outages. Instead of feeding excess solar energy back into the grid at a low rate, commercial facilities can retain that energy and deploy it when utility prices surge.

What is energy storage?

Basics of Energy Storage Energy storage refers to resources which can serve as both electrical load by consuming power while charging and electrical generation by releasing power while discharging. Energy storage comes in a variety of forms, including mechanical (e.g., pumped hydro), thermal (e.g., ice/water), and electrochemical (e.g., batteries).

Should energy storage be included in the electric grid?

Integrating storage in the electric grid, especially in areas with high energy demand, will allow clean energy to be available when and where it is most needed. As New York continues to invest and build a cleaner grid, energy storage will allow us to use existing resources more efficiently and phase out the dirtiest power plants.

Are energy storage systems safe for commercial buildings?

For all of the technologies listed, as long as appropriate high voltage safety procedures are followed, energy storage systems can be a safe source of power in commercial buildings. For more information on specific technologies, please see the DOE/EPRI Electricity Storage Handbook available at:

How does a commercial solar energy system work?

Instead of feeding excess solar energy back into the grid at a low rate, commercial facilities can retain that energy and deploy it when utility prices surge. An ESS typically includes a lithium-ion battery bank, battery management system (BMS), bidirectional inverter, and energy management software.

Is energy storage a viable option?

Assuming the initial analysis shows that energy storage is an economically viable option, the final decision to procure an ESS needs to be taken in the broader perspective of the business as a whole. This can include looking at issues of space, noise, and timing for system installation.