In the context of the current energy transformation, energy storage systems (ESS) are becoming one of the key elements of energy system stability. Moreover, ESS is a universal tool for various application models. This refers to the possibility of using ESS to provide ancillary services, operate in the day-ahead market (DAM) based on the principle of price arbitrage, or in combination with the balancing market. The operation of ESS under market conditions is quite appealing for new projects.
KNESS Group, with its experience and practical expertise, provides a comprehensive approach to the implementation and operation of ESS: from turnkey development and construction to technical maintenance and further commercial management.
Turnkey energy storage systems
ESS project implementation begins with development. This is the initial and most time-consuming stage, which includes searching for a land plot with a change in its intended use, with the corresponding development of a detailed plan of the territory, registration of ownership or use rights to the land plot, obtaining technical conditions for connection and urban planning conditions and restrictions, developing the approval stage of the ESS construction project, followed by uploading it to the Unified State System in the construction field. And finally, agreeing on the project with the distribution/transmission system operator and obtaining permission to start construction work.
The next step is to develop project solutions for forming specifications and performing construction work. In parallel with this, KNESS procures and supplies the main equipment – energy storage systems, power converters, transformers, etc. This year, KNESS and HiTHIUM signed a cooperation agreement, under which KNESS has authorized rights to supply, install, and provide technical support for HiTHIUM’s ESS in Ukraine and acts as a partner in European markets. Such direct cooperation with a global ESS manufacturer makes it possible to significantly speed up the delivery process and provide full warranty support after equipment installation. The company also has partnership agreements with NR Electric, Sineng, and other leading manufacturers.
Next comes construction and connection to the grid. At this stage, the physical implementation of the ESS project takes place: from the preparation of the energy infrastructure, laying of the power transmission line, installation and commissioning of the main equipment to putting into operation and support in obtaining a certificate of construction completion, which is the starting point for licensing.
And the final stage is acquiring market participant status, which transforms the constructed facility into a complete energy asset.
Comprehensive technical maintenance and warranty obligations
KNESS provides a full range of services in the energy market, including technical maintenance of energy storage systems. For this purpose, KNESS team has undergone appropriate training and received certificates from equipment manufacturing partners to provide services for the configuration and technical maintenance of ESS. The company also assumes warranty obligations for the installed equipment. Our operation and maintenance direction includes dispatching and monitoring the technical condition of equipment through our own SCADA software and hardware complex, namely the EMS (Energy Management System) module.
Energy Management System by KNESS
KNESS team has developed its own Energy Management System (EMS) to manage energy storage systems. This tool is designed for two main use cases.
The first one is for trading
The comprehensive system enables trading operations for ESS to be generated from a single interface and automatically executed according to specified parameters. The software and hardware complex is integrated with organized segments of the JSC “Market Operator” and the market management system.
The second is for own (auxiliary) needs
In this mode, the system operates fully automatically or according to predefined operating scenarios. The main goal is to reduce electricity consumption from the grid and increase the energy efficiency of enterprises.
EMS by KNESS is flexible and adaptive. The team can expand the range of usage scenarios individually for each case, ensuring maximum efficiency and compliance with the agreed business model.
Commercial ESS management and the possibility of participating in the Aggregate Group
Thanks to adopted legislative initiatives, energy storage systems in Ukraine have transformed from innovative solutions into an attractive business opportunity. Promising business models based on ESS have been developed, and market participants are already actively working with them. However, the effective operation of ESS in the electricity market requires comprehensive expertise, experience, and the availability of appropriate software solutions. This is because the control system is the “brain” of the energy storage facility, and knowledge of the specifics of the various market segments is a key component of the project’s success and profitability.
KNESS RnD team has developed a monitoring and management system for all ESS components: from the lower level—the battery management system and converters operation, to the upper level—the control modules for the installation nodes. The software we have developed is all about safety, flexibility, and controllability. It is the management system that transforms the energy storage into an intelligent energy facility.
It is valuable for us to realize that the expertise we have accumulated over the years, modeling market scenarios for ESS operation, and a deep understanding of technology now help us to actively implement energy innovations for Ukraine and assist investors in fulfilling the maximum ESS potential — from quick payback and stable income to increased reliability of the energy system.
KNESS is the organizer of the Aggregated Group and also provides ESS commercial management services to market participants. The first perspective guarantees access to new market segments for obtaining additional income, allows maximizing profits by responding to price fluctuations, and ensures profitable representation of the participant’s interests in various market segments. KNESS takes on full administration, interaction with the operator, and effective capacity management, removing the operational burden.
The second is commercial ESS management. As part of this service, we create accurate trading schedules, ensure active participation in the balancing and ancillary services markets, provide consultations on operations in other market segments, recommendations on financial management to avoid penalties, and continuously monitor the market to make informed decisions.
KNESS is a reliable partner in the field of energy innovation, which is transforming the potential of energy storage technologies into a viable business.
