Implementing Fusebox EMS Platform for FRV Mexico at Stoneridge Site

Client: FRV Mexico
Objective: Deploy an advanced EMS for FRV Mexico to optimize battery storage, enable real-time control, and reduce energy costs with resilient, automated management.

Client Overview

FRV Mexico, a subsidiary of Fotowatio Renewable Ventures (FRV), is a leading global solar power developer. At their Stoneridge site, FRV required a reliable Energy Management System (EMS) to optimize energy costs through smart battery energy storage and management. The project aimed to integrate a Battery Energy Storage Solution (BESS) with real-time monitoring and automation to maximize energy savings while adhering to site constraints and energy demands.

Challenges

The Stoneridge site faced fluctuating energy costs and grid connection limitations, impacting operational efficiency. Specifically, the site needed:

1. A robust solution to perform energy arbitrage—charging the battery during low-cost periods and discharging during peak price times —with safeguards in place to handle internet disruptions and ensure continuous operation.
2. Real-time control to manage peak load shaving and grid congestion.
3. A scalable and user-friendly platform that could provide both FRV and its end customers with actionable insights and control.

Solution

Fusebox deployed its EMS platform tailored for FRV Mexico’s Stoneridge site. The solution included:

1. Battery Energy Storage System (BESS): A Jinko 1200 kW/2064 kWh BESS was installed to store energy and control power flows at the site. The Fusebox controller ensured that BESS could operate with real-time accuracy and respond to dynamic grid requirements.
2. Real-time Measurement and Control: Five low-voltage (LV) measuring points were installed across substations to monitor the site’s energy consumption. The system used Siemens power metering devices, which communicated with Fusebox’s EMS via Modbus TCP for real-time data collection.
3. Advanced Platform Configuration: Fusebox configured the EMS platform to enable:
   • Energy Arbitrage: The system automatically scheduled battery charging and discharging based on electricity price variations, maximizing savings.
   • Grid Connection Point Limits: The platform prioritized peak load shaving by dynamically adjusting battery usage to avoid exceeding grid connection limits.
   • Custom Restrictions and Monitoring: Operators could set restrictions based on temperature, State of Charge (SoC), or time, ensuring BESS remained within safe operating limits.
   • Alarm and Notification Systems: Real-time alerts were implemented to notify operators of any system anomalies, ensuring prompt response to issues.
   • Fallback Solution: To maintain workability during internet connection disruptions, the system was equipped with a fallback mode. This allowed the controller to continue operating offline, ensuring continuous operation and preventing interruptions in energy management.

Key Results

1. Reduced Energy Costs: The energy arbitrage functionality helped FRV Mexico minimize operational costs by efficiently using stored energy during high-tariff periods.
2. Increased Operational Efficiency: The real-time control of BESS and grid interactions reduced grid congestion, enabling smoother operations and compliance with grid regulations.
3. Improved User Control and Insights: Fusebox’s EMS provided intuitive access to system data, allowing operators to monitor energy flows, adjust automation rules, and receive timely notifications.
4. Scalability for Future Needs: With user access and monitoring controls in place, the system can easily be expanded to manage additional sites or energy assets.

Conclusion

By implementing the Fusebox EMS platform at Stoneridge, FRV Mexico achieved significant operational cost savings and enhanced site performance through smart energy management. The scalable nature of the solution ensures FRV can continue to grow its energy assets while benefiting from a more efficient and reliable energy infrastructure.