Abstract
As the energy sector transitions to lower carbon emission solutions, there is a need to better understand the limitations and impacts of increased renewable energy generation sources on the grid. This study investigates the potential for energy storage technology across Texas using historical data of renewable energy sources. The Texas electric grid currently relies mostly on wind and natural gas to meet its load, with both seasonal and daily variations due to the availability of renewables. The Texas electric grid data for 2022, published by ERCOT, showed a yearly consumption of over 428,000 GWh, out of which 36% is covered with natural gas, 25% with wind, 6% with solar, 17% with coal, and the rest using other electric sources. This study focuses on a techno-economic evaluation of behind-the-meter commercial microgrids to evaluate the impacts of energy cost and renewable penetration on the Texas energy landscape by increasing the levels of solar photovoltaic and wind generation along with energy storage and decreasing the state’s reliability on fossil fuels (coal and gas). The results are assessed from the perspective of a large commercial user with a dedicated behind-the-meter microgrid used to minimize or replace purchased grid power across eight different regions. To complete the analysis, an in-house tool will be used to assess the techno-economics for different levels of renewable energy generation and decarbonized generation with various energy storage sizes with a specific energy cost and load in the distinct load zones across the Texas grid. Conclusions are drawn for optimal renewable penetration at this scale with the addition of the proper amount of storage.
