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Enabling reliable grid integration for a 7.2MW battery energy storage system

OI Glass | UK

Client

OI Glass

Project size

7.2MW Grid Connected BESS

Location

Alloa, Scotlland

Helping GridBeyond integrate two 3.6MW battery energy storage systems at OI Glass's manufacturing facility in Scotland. Overcoming complex grid connection constraints through precise engineering and intelligent control design to support reliable energy storage infrastructure.

Installing a 7.2MW battery energy storage system (BESS) at OI Glass’s manufacturing facility in Scotland required careful integration with the existing Scottish Power network. The project brings together two parallel-connected 3.6MW systems, operating through a single breaker on the site’s 11kV grid connection. Ensuring both systems could operate within strict network requirements was central to the design.

One of the most significant challenges was managing the electrical disturbance caused by energising the system’s step-up transformers. Detailed calculations identified that both transformers could not be energised simultaneously without exceeding the rapid voltage change (RVC) limits at the point of connection. The design needed to accommodate these constraints while maintaining a practical and compliant operating arrangement.

As electrical engineering consultants, Ethos designed the interface between the BESS installation and the Scottish Power network. Our scope included coordinating the power switching arrangements, BESS energy control systems, G99 and G100 protection interfaces, and associated monitoring and control systems.

Our calculations informed a targeted control solution. By introducing a 600-second delay between energising the first and second transformers, the design allows the system to operate within the network’s very infrequent disturbance allowance. This addressed a critical connection constraint without requiring simultaneous transformer energisation.

Beyond the grid interface, Ethos reviewed the earthing design, identified potential improvements and advised on the additional calculations needed to support the system’s electrical safety.

Now in construction, the project demonstrates how detailed engineering and practical problem-solving can overcome complex grid connection requirements. By resolving key technical constraints at design stage, Ethos has helped establish a compliant integration strategy for GridBeyond’s 7.2MW installation, supporting the development of energy storage infrastructure at the manufacturing facility.

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Susan Cormican

Client Partner
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