The use of batteries in stand-alone renewable power systems

In this paper the use of battery storage in standalone renewable power system is discussed. Due to significant fluctuations in power generation and consumption, the application of batteries in small stand-alone renewable power system is rather complicated. Maintaining the power balance leads to high fluctuations in the battery charge and discharge currents. This is in contrast with the smooth and limited charge and discharge currents that are recommended by battery manufacturers. Uncontrolled use of batteries will shorten the battery lifespan very fast; however frequent conditioning of the batteries may reduce this effect significantly. This paper describes the impact of these effects on the system control and operation and presents some solutions to deal with battery storage in this specific application. It is concluded that the presented battery control strategy leads to an optimization of the use of renewable energy and the prolongation of the battery lifespan.