Can Utility-scale portable energy storage be used in California?

We introduce the potential applications of utility-scale portable energy storage and investigate its economics in California using a spatiotemporal decision model that determines the optimal operation and transportation schedules of portable storage.

What is a utility-scale portable energy storage system (PESS)?

In this work, we first introduce the concept of utility-scale portable energy storage systems (PESS) and discuss the economics of a practical design that consists of an electric truck, energy storage, and necessary energy conversion systems.

Can portable energy storage systems complement transmission expansion?

Portable energy storage systems can complement transmission expansion by enabling fast, flexible, and cost-efficient responses to renewable integration that is crucial for a timely and cost-effective energy transition.

How can energy storage improve the economic viability of energy storage?

Improving the economic viability of energy storage with smarter and more efficient utilization schemes can support more rapid penetrations of renewables and cost-effectively accelerate decarbonization.

Can battery storage be deployed in the power grid?

The deployment of battery storage in the power grid, however, is currently limited by its low economic viability, which results from not only high capital costs but also the lack of flexible and efficient utilization schemes and business models.

Is portable deployment a viable alternative to stationary deployment?

We find that portable deployment has the potential to enhance profitability relative to stationary deployment in 36% of the studied counties and to exceed costs in San Diego sites as well as several other locations as battery costs drop.