A California developer believes grid-connected batteries represent the next step in advancing electric efficiency standards on its development portfolio.
The Irvine Co. and Advanced Microgrid Solutions recently installed 16 Tesla PowerPack battery systems at an office tower. It was the first installation in what will be a fleet of Irvine Co. Hybrid-Electric Buildings that will be used for grid support by Southern California Edison.
The hybrid-electric building, as an Irvine executive calls it, charges its battery system on off-peak hours and later discharges the battery during times of peak energy use. This reduces the energy drawn from the electricity grid during peak periods.
The result is lower electricity costs (10% savings or more) and a more stable and flexible electric grid. With large users drawing power from batteries during peak times, utilities can avoid starting additional power plants to serve peak loads, thereby reducing associated greenhouse-gas emissions.
Battery storage can also be combined with photovoltaic panels, providing additional cost savings and environmental benefits.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Mar 14, 2017
Timber Innovation Act to promote tall wood buildings introduced in Congress
The measure has bipartisan support.
Codes and Standards | Mar 13, 2017
U.S. House and Senate have voted to repeal Dept. of Labor’s 'blacklisting' rule
The rule mandates labor compliance review for federal construction contractors.
Codes and Standards | Mar 9, 2017
WiredScore forms Connectivity Advisory Committee
The committee's creation is an important step forward for the group that evaluates internet connectivity in buildings.
Codes and Standards | Mar 8, 2017
New guide examines multifamily high-performance ventilation
The focus is on cost and performance of various systems.
Codes and Standards | Mar 7, 2017
Canada’s national building codes will encompass effects of climate change
Forecasted data, not historical data, will be used as the basis for the codes.
Codes and Standards | Mar 6, 2017
ConsensusDocs updates standard short contract editions
The updates address industry changes impacting insurance, legal, technology, and terminology.
Codes and Standards | Mar 3, 2017
ASCE updates standard for structures using tensile membrane
The new sstandard combines guidelines for conventional tensile membrane structures with frame-covered membrane structures.
Codes and Standards | Mar 1, 2017
EPA's 2017 Construction General Permit now in effect
The regulation governs compliance with effluent limits.
Codes and Standards | Feb 28, 2017
Concern grows for high tide flood vulnerability in Mid-Atlantic states
Washington, D.C., and Annapolis, Md., could flood every three days by 2045.
Codes and Standards | Feb 27, 2017
Green building saves operating costs and boosts asset value
A new report shows 14% cost savings and a 7% increase in value when green standards are met.
