Energy Toolbase and Napa-based EPC BPi successfully deployed three energy storage systems (ESS) at the Korbel Winery in Sonoma County, California. The installation is part of the winery’s broader commitment to advancing sustainability and integrating renewable energy across its operations.
Energy Toolbase and BPi installed three BYD battery systems integrated with the ETB Controller energy management system at the winery. The advanced energy storage system deployment is designed to reduce demand charges, navigate grid limitations and optimize energy use under the region’s time-of-use (TOU) billing tariffs. The project also addresses a 980-kWAC export cap imposed by PG&E due to local substation constraints, enabling the site to maximize on-site renewable generation and deliver substantial energy cost savings.
BPi implemented a limited export control strategy using SEL-751 relays and inline contactors. Energy Toolbase, through ETB Controller with Acumen AI, manages the BYD batteries in real time, in compliance with the parameters set by BPi in the SEL relays. The controls limit exports within the utility-defined cap and dynamically dispatch battery power to minimize costly demand spikes for the facility. Through Acumen AI’s dynamic economic dispatch strategy, ETB Controller optimizes the battery’s operation in real time to determine the most cost-effective dispatch strategy and maximize economic value without manual intervention. ETB Controller manages energy flow to shave the site’s peak demand, reduce utility bills and maximize on-site energy generation for critical equipment like cold storage, wine-making systems, bottling lines and compressors.
Energy Toolbase streamlined the procurement and commissioning process for BPi, ensuring a smooth and efficient installation. The project features 852 kW of rooftop solar across four buildings, paired with three BYD CHESS units, each rated at 266 kWh, for a total of 798 kWh of energy storage capacity.
“This project is a powerful example of how intelligent software paired with modular energy storage can overcome complex grid constraints while delivering immediate, measurable value,” said Kevin Mulvey, VP of operations at Energy Toolbase. “Our collaboration with BPi was instrumental in successfully navigating the complex interconnection requirements and deploying a solution that’s already producing significant savings for Korbel.”
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