Optimization Modeling Of Solar Plus Storage For Demand Shaving And Building Resiliency

Abstract

This thesis looks at combining small scale battery storage in combination with solar PV to achieve peak demand savings and building resiliency at the Hartley Nature Center. Research was carried out by tracking loading data for a calendar year, resulting in recommended loading changes and the creation of a deterministic optimization model for battery operation. When combined with the elimination of excessive loads such as the electric boiler, the deterministic model’s optimized settings showed that the installed 14.25 kWh battery could yield annual economic savings upwards of $750 while operating at efficiencies above 90%. Combining the battery with solar PV added further value from avoiding grid outages, resulting in potentially thousands of additional dollars in savings.