Optimizing Energy Production Through BESS Integration in Photovoltaic Power Plants in Brazil
Abstract
Electricity generation in Brazil is predominantly carried out using renewable energy sources. According to EPE, in 2024, renewable sources accounted for 88.2% of the national electricity matrix. Wind and solar, known as variable energy sources, together account for 23,7% of all the energy generated in the country. Despite the strong presence of renewables in Brazil, these sources have been facing a scenario of uncertainty due to significant operational constraints, particularly affecting wind and photovoltaic power plants in the Northeast region. These constraints worsened after the failure of the National Interconnected System (SIN) in August 2023, which caused a 41% reduction in energy transfer from the Northeast to the Southeast/Central-West regions. Therefore, an immediate solution is essential for the growth of intermittent sources, aiming to reduce the amount of energy wasted due to SIN restrictions. One solution is the integration of batteries alongside generation. With this objective, this study will model and analyze the results of integrating a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) into a photovoltaic plant, thereby reducing its operational constraints. The results show that integrating a 30 MW/150 MWh BESS into photovoltaic plants in Brazil’s Northeast effectively mitigates curtailment by storing excess midday generation and dispatching it during evening peaks (6 p.m. to 10 p.m.). Overall, PV-BESS systems provide a reliable solution to enhance dispatchability and grid adequacy in Brazil’s renewable energy sector.
Keywords
PV Power Plant, BESS, curtailment