Energy storage requirements for South African photovoltaic projects

Is the Bess suitable for solar PV application in South Africa?

As a result, the current work presents a comprehensive and consequential review conducted on the BESS specifically for solar PV application and in the South African context.

Why is battery energy storage important in South Africa?

Therefore, there is an increase in the exploration and investment of battery energy storage systems (BESS) to exploit South Africa’s high solar photovoltaic (PV) energy and help alleviate production losses related to load-shedding-induced downtime.

What is a photovoltaic system in South Africa?

Photovoltaic (PV) systems are widely applied in South Africa for powering professional niche applications such as telecommunications, microwave links, navigational aids and meteorology stations, where PV is well established as the best practical option.

How does a PV system work in South Africa?

The energy produced by a PV system can be consumed in the same household or fed to the public grid and then consumed by another user. Because of the lack of or low feed-in tariffs, the most economical way to operate a PV system in South Africa is to use most of the PV energy in the same household.

Does South Africa have regulations on PV installations?

South Africa still has a lack of regulations and standards regarding PV installations. Nevertheless, existing regulations must be adhered to. In the NRS 097-03, the maximum size of a PV installation connected to a certain feeder is stipulated.

Can large-scale PV solar projects reduce load shedding in South Africa?

Therefore, large -scale PV solar projects for reli- vestment in energy storage technologies. This work discusses the knowledge gap in the in the South African context. workable solution in combating the problem of load shedding in South Africa.