Distributed energy storage in Tampere Finland

Can battery energy storage systems serve in rural distribution networks?

In sparsely populated Finland, Elenia Verkko Oyj is studying how battery energy storage systems might serve in the utility’s rural distribution networks. Renewable energy production that now is associated with the transition and the reduction of regulated energy production has resulted in a rapid increase in battery energy storage systems.

Is Finland a good place to invest in battery energy storage?

In addition to that, Finland has a strong culture focusing on core business functions and there is always plenty of space for services. It is, however, noticeable that battery energy storage systems or services are demonstrated only by larger companies, which have got typically 30% investment support.

Is Finland a good market for storage as a service business?

The Finnish market has some specific characteristics that make it an interesting target as a case study regarding storage as a service business. Finland is the first country in the world to have adopted smart electricity metering (hourly metering and remote reading) on a full scale.

How many battery installations are there in Finland?

Today there are approximately 10 battery installations in Finland (see Table 1), which are providing services for different stakeholders in the energy value chain. First, the case studies are classified based on the framework presented above, and next, the main concerns raised in the interviews conducted are outlined.

Can energy storage be integrated into distribution systems?

The case studies were conducted as part of the STORY H2020 project, which aims to integrate energy storage into distribution systems. Interviews were carried out with project participants and regulatory authorities in order to create a full picture.

Who owns battery energy storage systems?

The ownership of the storage systems and their place in the value chain is explained next. Today battery energy storage systems can be owned and operated by the Power Generation Company (PGC), the Retailer (acting typically also as Balance Responsible Company (BRC)), the Aggregator (AGG) and the Prosumer (PRO).