A real Case of Peak Shaving and Demand Management
The advancement of energy storage systems (BESS) has accelerated worldwide in recent years. However, as these systems become more widespread, a new challenge arises: ensuring they operate efficiently within the rules and constraints of the electrical system.
More than simply installing a BESS, the real value lies in how it is operated.
This case presents how Automa implemented an Energy Management System (EMS) to enable the efficient use of a BESS, focusing on demand control and operational cost reduction. The developed solution includes field integration with several critical assets, including batteries, power conversion systems (PCS), protection relays, and meters, ensuring reliable communication and coordinated system operation. This is a highly critical project, as the BESS plays an essential role in energy supply, supporting an entire city.
The Project
The main objective of the project was to operate the storage system efficiently during peak hours while respecting contracted demand limits.
This scenario presents direct risks to the client:
- demand exceedance
- penalties from the utility
- lack of predictability in energy costs
Without a well-defined operational strategy, the BESS alone would not be sufficient to mitigate these risks.
The Solution: EMS as the Intelligence Layer
Automa was responsible for implementing its EMS (Energy Management System), acting as the operational intelligence layer of the system.
The EMS enabled:
- real-time monitoring of electrical variables
- automated charge and discharge control
- dynamic demand management
- data-driven decision-making
This layer was essential to transform the BESS into an efficient operational asset.
Applied Strategy: Peak Shaving
The main strategy adopted was peak shaving during peak hours.
The operational logic was structured as follows:
- system charging throughout the day, respecting contracted demand
- controlled discharge during peak hours
- dynamic adjustments based on consumption variations
This control prevented demand exceedance, reducing the risk of penalties and ensuring operation within established limits.
Operational Results
With the implementation of the EMS and the peak shaving strategy, the system began operating more efficiently and predictably.
Key results included:
- reduced risk of penalties due to demand exceedance
- greater predictability of energy costs
- improved utilization of the storage system
- more stable and controlled operation
In practice, the BESS evolved from a purely technical asset into an active energy management tool.
Project Evolution
Beyond the current delivery, the system architecture already considers its evolution toward higher levels of integration and intelligence.
Automa is advancing in the development of:
- operation as a Virtual Power Plant (VPP)
- integration with the National System Operator (ONS)
These advancements expand the system's role, enabling greater flexibility and active participation in the power system.
The growth of BESS usage brings an important shift in the sector: the focus moves from infrastructure to operation.
Projects like this demonstrate that energy efficiency depends directly on the ability to monitor, decide, and act in real time.
Automa's EMS consolidates this role by transforming data into operational decisions, ensuring efficiency, safety, and predictability.
Want to understand how to apply this approach to your operation?