Energy storage system supporting national frequency regulation

Standalone energy storage project developed by Merus Power to participate in ancillary services and energy market operations

The project involves the development of an advanced 30 MW / 36.7 MWh lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery energy storage system (BESS). This cutting-edge system, Merus® ESS, is designed and manufactured by Merus Power to play a significant role in the national frequency regulation reserve markets, also known as FCR markets. These markets are notably lucrative, offering substantial financial benefits for participants who can help stabilize the grid’s frequency.
Strategically, the site for this project has been carefully chosen and has received the necessary permits. This foresight in site selection is crucial as it allows for future enhancements of the energy storage system.
Currently, the system is poised for an upgrade to a two-hour capacity model if market dynamics shift towards markets that demand more energy-intensive solutions. Such an upgrade would significantly increase the storage duration of the system, enhancing its capability to meet longer-duration energy requirements. Alternatively, there’s also a provision for upgrading the system to 60 MW capacity, albeit with a one-hour storage duration. This potential upgrade is based on the continued growth and profitability of the FCR markets. If these markets continue to expand and remain the most valuable option, the upgraded 60 MW system would enable the energy storage system to contribute more significantly to frequency regulation, thereby increasing its market presence and revenue potential.

Full EPC and O&M with availability guarantees

Indoor Merus Power takes on comprehensive responsibilities as a full turn-key contractor for this project. This includes a wide array of duties ranging from civil engineering and construction to the manufacturing and final commissioning of the system. Key deliverables comprise the installation of a high-voltage substation, transformers, and medium-voltage (MV) switchgear. The project also involves the delivery and setup of a state-of-the-art Power Conversion System (PCS) and a robust Battery System.

A crucial component of this project is the implementation of an Energy Management System (EMS), seamlessly integrated with an Energy Trading and Optimization System to ensure efficient energy distribution and trading. Additionally, the PCS is expertly integrated with the Battery Management System (BMS) for optimal performance.

Merus Power has established partnerships with notable sub-suppliers: Elegrid providing substation delivery, Hitachi and ZREW are supplying transformers, CATL is providing the batteries, and Kaarirakenne is responsible for the construction of the battery shelter.

Another significant aspect of Merus Power’s role is managing the entire permitting process for connecting the battery energy storage system and substation to the grid. This involves handling every detail of the SJV2019 process, including all the necessary design and simulation work.

Post-installation, Merus Power commits to a long-term engagement by offering a 15-year Operations and Maintenance (O&M) contract for the energy storage. This contract includes an availability guarantee and encompasses services like remote monitoring, operational support, and the provision of detailed performance and energy storage condition reports.

Segment / Application

Grid balancing

Location

Lempäälä, Finland

Purpose

Grid balancing and participation in the national frequency regulation reserve markets, including FFR, FCD-D, and FRC-N.

Merus^® Solution

Merus® ESS – Energy storage system

Merus® Energy Storage System is a scalable lithium-ion battery energy storage system fully designed by Merus Power.

High expertise from start to finish, working closely with the customer
Access to the Finnish electricity market
Supporting greater renewable energy integration into the grid
Asset scalability and versatility to adapt to changing market conditions
Arctic design for -40°C, snow, and ice, ensuring high availability
30 MW / 36 MWh, expandable up to 60 MW / 72 MWh

Grid connection and a battery shelter

The battery energy storage system boasts a direct connection to Finland’s Transmission System Operator, Fingrid’s 110 KV line, interfacing through its own dedicated substation, named Paistinkulma by Fingrid in their grid system. Initially, this substation is designed with a capacity of 30 MW, but with foresight in design, it can be efficiently upgraded to a 60 MW capacity to meet future demands.

Central to this project is the use of CATL’s ENERONE cabinets, which are specifically designed for outdoor installation. Given Finland’s unique location near the Arctic Circle, the project includes a specialized battery shelter building. This building is ingeniously designed to maintain an operational temperature above the lower limits specified by the battery supplier, ensuring optimal performance even during the harshest Nordic winters.

This thoughtful design not only ensures the system’s resilience in extreme weather conditions but also allows for scalability, accommodating future expansions in capacity. The integration with Fingrid’s grid and the strategic use of advanced technology and infrastructure underscores the project’s innovative approach to energy storage in challenging environments.