A recent study led by Rudolf F. P. Paternost from the Department of Electrical, Electronic, and Information Engineering at the University of Bologna has shed light on a promising approach to electrifying bus fleets in urban areas where grid congestion poses a significant challenge. Published in ‘IEEE Access’, the research highlights how stationary energy storage systems (ESS) can play a crucial role in supporting the transition from traditional fossil fuel-powered buses to electric models.
As cities aim to reduce their carbon footprints, the adoption of electric buses is becoming increasingly important. However, the existing electrical infrastructure often struggles to keep up with the heightened demand for power, especially in congested grid areas. Paternost’s study suggests that by integrating energy storage solutions at traction substations, cities can effectively buffer power demand and alleviate the stress on the grid. This is particularly relevant since grid operators may be unable or unwilling to expand capacity, making innovative solutions essential for progress.
The research delves into a power management strategy that optimizes the interaction between the energy storage systems and the grid. This strategy ensures that the average power drawn over 15-minute intervals remains manageable, thus allowing for more electric bus projects to be implemented without requiring significant upgrades to existing grid contracts. Paternost notes, “Billing contract power can be reduced by up to 41.7% when a storage device actuates in high-energy-demand substations,” indicating substantial savings for municipalities looking to electrify their transport systems.
Moreover, the study also compares various types of lithium-ion batteries, including second-life options, to identify the most cost-effective and space-efficient solutions for energy storage. This aspect is particularly appealing to the energy sector, as it opens up avenues for utilizing batteries that may have reached the end of their initial life cycle in other applications, thereby reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
The implications of this research extend beyond just the transportation sector. By enabling cities to manage their energy consumption more effectively, there are significant commercial opportunities for energy storage manufacturers and service providers. The ability to implement electric bus fleets without overhauling existing infrastructure could lead to increased demand for energy storage solutions, creating a ripple effect in the energy market.
In summary, Paternost’s research offers a pathway for cities grappling with grid limitations to embrace electric transportation. As urban areas continue to prioritize sustainability, the findings from this study may very well influence future policies and investments in energy infrastructure. For more details on this research, you can visit the University of Bologna.
