There is a common misconception that battery energy storage systems, or BESS, are an expensive solution that is only appropriate for larger sites with bigger budgets and higher power demands. However, this is far from the case. 

In fact, smaller sites can often benefit more from using battery energy storage systems than larger projects, due to the locations in which they work, their restricted budgets and their fluctuating power demands.

The challenge of powering small sites 

As discussed above, small sites can often be difficult to power efficiently and cost-effectively due to the nature of their work:

• Fluctuating power demand – unlike larger sites where power use is generally more consistent, smaller sites can see greater variation in demand. Many smaller sites compensate for this by hiring a larger generator to cope with maximum demand. These are then run constantly at an inefficient level for the whole of the day so they are ready ‘just in case’.

• Active locations – smaller sites are often located within active commercial, residential or transport locations, rather than larger, sprawling sites. This puts greater pressure on noise control and the emissions from traditional diesel generators.

• Tight budgets – the smaller the project, the tighter the budget controls need to be. Any wasted fuel or excessive operating costs will directly impact the overall financial viability of the project.

The benefits of BESS for smaller sites

There are multiple benefits that come with using a battery energy storage system on a smaller site, including:

• Lower fuel costs – by storing the energy produced by generators, BESS can deliver power as and when it is required, without the need to waste fuel by running the generator constantly. Many sites save between 50% and 80% on generator fuel costs by using a BESS.

• Less noise pollution – by storing energy during the day, battery energy storage systems can provide power silently during nighttime hours. Shorter generator runtime, and the smaller generators required by a BESS, also cut noise pollution during the day.

• Lower emissions – less diesel generator use and smaller generators mean lower emissions of CO2, NO2 and particulates.

• More efficient generator use – because any excess energy is stored, generators can be run at their most efficient level during charging, avoiding inefficient idling during lulls, or straining of the generator during high demand

• Facilitating renewables – BESS allow for effective integration of renewables, such as solar energy from Think Hire’s industry leading Solartainer Versatile, while still delivering reliable, dependable power 24/7

• Reduced maintenance costs – less generator runtime means fewer refuelling visits, less general maintenance and servicing, and longer equipment life.

Which smaller sites can benefit from BESS?

Battery energy storage systems are especially useful across a range of smaller sites and temporary projects, including:

• Small-scale housebuilding developments 

• Highway and rail maintenance and repair works 

• Extension, repair and refurbishment of existing buildings

• Projects in areas where noise is an issue (eg residential, clinical or educational)

• Projects in pollution sensitive areas (such as clean air zones, ULEZ etc)

Choosing the right battery energy storage system for your site

To gain the maximum benefit from your BESS, it is important to choose the right unit. This will ensure that you gain the biggest savings in fuel costs, and the highest reduction in emissions, without compromising on the reliable, dependable power that your site needs.

To select the right battery energy storage system, you need to consider:

• Average power demands 

• Peak power demands

• Operating hours, including overnight lighting 

• How the BESS will be charged (diesel generator, renewables, grid)

• Noise and environmental restrictions

The expert team at Think Hire will be happy to work with you to understand your power requirements and help you choose the right BESS for your site. We have helped hundreds of sites, just like yours, to save thousands of pounds in operating costs by installing BESS technology.

Stop wasting money on site power

As you can see, contrary to popular belief, battery energy storage systems are not just for larger sites. Smaller sites can enjoy significant savings, both financial and environmental, by managing their power better with a BESS. 

To find out more, contact Think Hire today and start planning more efficient, more environmentally friendly and more cost-effective operations, whatever the size of your site.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are battery energy storage systems only for larger sites?

No. In fact, smaller sites can gain more from deploying BESS as they can help with the tighter budgets, more varied power demands and environmental restrictions found on smaller sites.

How much space does a battery energy storage system require?

Battery energy storage systems are compact and fully portable, making them ideal for smaller sites. A BESS and smaller generator will often take up less space than a full sized generator, while serving the same power needs.

Can a BESS completely replace a diesel generator on a small site?

Yes. A BESS, paired with renewable energy generation, will often provide enough power for a smaller site. However, in most cases, a hybrid set-up, including a small diesel generator, is the most dependable power solution.

Are battery storage systems cost-effective for short-term projects?

Yes. The additional hire cost of a battery energy storage system will normally be outweighed by the significant reduction in fuel costs (50%-80%) and other operating cost savings. You can save even more by using a BESS to integrate free renewable energy.