In the increasingly complex world of energy management, Joulz and Intercel have collaborated on an innovative solution to grid congestion.
This article explains how Joulz, in collaboration with Intercel, is deploying a Virtual Power Grid (VPG) to reduce grid congestion and promote energy transition.
Grid congestion at KAN Logistics Park
Early 2023 marked the beginning of an important collaboration between Joulz and Intercel.
One of the most notable projects is the installation of an energy storage system at the KAN Logistics Park distribution center in Bemmel.
This project plays a crucial role in managing the center’s energy needs.
KAN Logistics Park, located at Pannenhuis business park in Bemmel, faced a challenge that many companies face today: grid congestion.
Grid operator Liander could not provide sufficient energy capacity to make this state-of-the-art distribution center operational.
As a result, the company could not get the large grid connection they needed to keep the business running.
The solution: Virtual Power Grid
A Virtual Power Grid (VPG) is cohesive network of energy sources, such as solar panels, batteries and a gas and/or diesel generator, managed as one integrated system.
VPGs offer multiple benefits, including providing energy security and sustainability.
It is also a very effective solution in times of grid congestion to still have sufficient available power.
The plant is owned by Joulz and leased by Frasers Property.
Components of the Virtual Power Grid
Local energy generation: solar panels on the roof of the distribution center generate renewable energy.
The locally installed gas generator provides power availability when renewable generation is not possible or sufficient.
Emergency power is provided by a diesel generator.
Energy Storage System (BESS): The BESS system stores energy generated by solar panels or from the regular grid.
This stored energy can be released during peak hours to meet demand even then despite limited availability from the regular grid.
Energy Management System (EMS): This system controls the use of available energy from generators (PV, gas, diesel and the grid) and storage. The EMS ensures efficient distribution and helps avoid exceeding grid capacity.
Cost savings: VPGs optimize the use of energy resources and can avoid peak load costs through energy storage and demand response strategies.
Increased reliability: VPGs provide increased redundancy.
The impact of any power failure on the regular grid thus becomes very small.
In this case, the system provides a guaranteed supply reliability of 99.99 percent.
Reduced emissions: By integrating renewable energy sources, VPGs reduce dependence on fossil fuels and contribute substantially to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Benefits of a Virtual Power Grid
“Intercel has more than 35 years of experience in batteries and it shows.
Their ability to offer customer-specific solutions is truly a distinguishing feature.
Another advantage is that Intercel is an entirely Dutch company, this ensures a high level of service. “
Bart-Jan Merkx, Product manager Joulz
Custom energy storage system
For the project in Bemmel, a standard energy storage system was not an option due to the client’s specific requirements.
Intercel designed and built a custom battery that could be placed in the specific space.
The battery system was first fully tested in Haarlem before being transported to the site and rebuilt on site at the customer’s facility.
Together against grid congestion
The collaboration between Joulz and Intercel demonstrates how partnerships help solve complex energy challenges.
Intercel’s expertise in battery storage and Joulz’s innovative approach with Virtual Power Grids combine to form solutions that are not only economically beneficial, but also contribute to a more sustainable future.
These projects are essential to accelerating the energy transition and addressing grid congestion, which will become increasingly important as electricity demand continues to grow.
The KAN Logistics Park distribution center in Bemmel is an example of how cooperation and innovation go hand in hand.
By using Virtual Power Grids and advanced energy storage systems, Joulz and Intercel can offer sustainable and reliable energy solutions that contribute to the future of energy management.
Also become a partner of Intercel and help customers get a reliable power supply?
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