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BESS stands for Battery Energy Storage System. A BESS stores electricity in batteries that is later discharged for use. A BESS enhances grid stability by storing excess energy, typically during low demand periods, for discharge when demand rises.

Tara BESS is a stand-alone BESS, which means it is not connected to any other electricity-generating technology. Tara BESS will store electricity from the grid and discharge it back to the grid.

There are three main components of a BESS: batteries, a substation, and transmission lines. Thousands of battery cells are organized into modules. The modules are stacked into battery containers that store and discharge electricity. Battery containers are equipped with current converters, called inverters, that convert direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) and vice versa. Battery containers are also equipped with a fan system that cools the batteries while charging.

The batteries are connected to a substation. A substation contains at least one transformer which converts electricity travelling between a BESS and an electrical grid from medium voltage (MV) to high voltage (HV), and vice versa. A substation also contains operational infrastructure, such as breakers, switches, and a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system that monitors, controls, and communicates on behalf of the BESS. The substation is connected to transmission lines that enable electricity to move between the BESS and an electrical grid. The transmission lines are typically supported by steel or wood structures, and tie into existing HV lines.

The at-grade infrastructure sits on concrete slabs or steel piles and is enclosed by fencing. Additionally, a BESS site will include a site office and parking.

Lithium-iron phosphate, a non-toxic and reliable form of lithium-ion battery, is used in Neoen’s BESS facilities.