A method of integrating energy storage into existing alternating current (AC) electrical systems involves connecting a battery system to the AC side of the infrastructure. This approach allows the battery to supply power directly to AC loads or to inject power back into the grid. A common application is augmenting existing solar photovoltaic (PV) installations; the storage component can capture excess solar energy and dispatch it when PV generation is low or unavailable.
This configuration offers several advantages, including relative ease of retrofitting existing solar systems and potential for grid services such as frequency regulation and peak shaving. Historically, this architecture has become prevalent due to its versatility and compatibility with established grid infrastructure, providing a cost-effective pathway to enhancing energy independence and grid resilience. The flexibility to charge from both the grid and renewable sources is also a key benefit.
