Spring 2024

The Energy Storage Team investigated the feasibility of pairing battery energy storage systems (BESS) with North Campus solar generation to store excess solar power for use during peak demand periods.

They focused on Ganędagǫ Hall, where the solar panels were installed, and built a capacity expansion model that considered solar generation, building energy needs, battery costs, carbon impacts, battery charge duration, and battery degradation. The team compared different battery chemistries, looked at available OEM and installation options, and assessed the regulatory requirements for BESS in New York State.

Their analysis showed that, at current battery prices, battery storage is not yet cost-effective for Cornell. However, future price reductions, incentives from the Inflation Reduction Act and NYSERDA, and new revenue streams such as demand response or energy arbitrage could improve cost-effectiveness. They also identified future research opportunities related to chilled water and thermal storage systems as complementary strategies for managing North Campus energy demand.