The application scenarios and revenue models for commercial and industrial (C&I) energy storage projects are diverse, with different scenarios suited to different profit strategies.
Application Scenarios & Revenue Model Examples
1. Standalone Configuration (Factories & Shopping Malls)
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Scenario: Factories and malls typically have stable power demand, especially during peak hours.
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Revenue Models:
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Peak-Valley Arbitrage: Charge at low-tariff off-peak hours, discharge at high-tariff peak hours to profit from price differences.
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Backup Power: Ensure uninterrupted power during grid outages, minimizing downtime losses.
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Demand Response: Participate in grid demand response programs, adjusting load per dispatch instructions to earn subsidies.
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2. Solar + Storage Charging Stations
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Scenario: Combines PV generation with storage to smooth output and reduce grid strain during peaks.
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Revenue Models:
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Peak-Valley Arbitrage: As above, leveraging time-of-use pricing.
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PV Self-Consumption: Maximize solar utilization, minimize curtailment via “generate-store-use” cycles.
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Spot Market Trading: In some regions, trade stored energy directly in electricity spot markets.
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3. Microgrids (Industrial Parks, Islands, etc.)
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Scenario: Enables energy self-sufficiency in remote areas or off-grid systems.
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Revenue Models:
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Energy Time-Shifting: Store off-peak power for peak-hour use, reducing reliance on main grids.
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Load Management: Optimize demand via smart systems to cut peak charges.
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Ancillary Services: Provide grid services (e.g., frequency regulation) for additional income.
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Case Studies
Case 1: Factory Storage Project (Jiangsu, China)
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Scenario: Manufacturing plant with daily peak demand (10 AM–4 PM).
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Revenue Strategies:
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Peak-valley arbitrage using Jiangsu’s tariff differentials.
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Backup power during outages.
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Demand response subsidies.
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Case 2: Solar+Storage Charging Station (Industrial Park)
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Scenario: Powers EV charging within the park.
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Revenue Strategies:
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Peak-valley arbitrage + PV self-consumption.
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Spot market trading (where permitted).
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Case 3: Island Microgrid (Off-Grid)
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Scenario: Replaces diesel dependence for a remote island.
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Revenue Strategies:
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Energy time-shifting + load management.
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Ancillary service fees from grid operators.
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