Offshore Battery Energy Storage System Operational Impacts and Remote Fleet Intelligence

Abstract

Abstract This paper aims to offer a thorough exploration of BESS technology in the context of offshore installations. A concise system overview is presented, covering the different chemistries, sub-systems and scalability, safety considerations and risk mitigation strategies, followed by an analysis of the main design aspects of a typical system. Furthermore, the primary operational modes for offshore installations and a comprehensive breakdown of the system's functioning for each mode are provided. The analysis includes the examination of actual data obtained from a diverse range of vessels operating globally. The article offers a comparison between designed vs actual operation and the possible consequences of operating the system outside the scope of its originally intended function, as well as how to mitigate these risks. The analyzed data is anonymized to enforce privacy rights and gathered from 39 hybrid offshore installations, with BESS sizes ranging from 452 kWh to 1424 kWh from 7 different operators with global reach. This data is utilized to identify and rank the most prevalent deviations observed in practical scenarios, along with the associated anticipated consequences for each one. These deviations are classified into two distinct sub-groups, the first includes minor discrepancies and prolonged exposure risks, while the second consists of substantial divergences and immediate risks. It is determined that failure modes falling under the second category, substantial deviations, present a heightened immediate risk. However, these modes are generally more easily detectable, and the system incorporates well-defined layers of safety design to prevent their occurrence. Moreover, in the event that such failures do transpire, measures are in place to minimize the resulting damages. Conversely, failure modes associated with the first category, minor discrepancies, may not entail immediate safety hazards, but they are more challenging to identify and nevertheless play a crucial role in the overall lifespan of the system and, consequently, the return on investment. As a final point, the article concludes by describing how the implementation of a continuous digital remote monitoring solution can aid operators in effectively addressing minor deviations. Proactive monitoring enables predictive maintenance and provides insights to optimize use of the system, thereby supporting overall system longevity and long-term function.