Delivering a Successful 20 MWh Utility Scale Battery Energy Storage System

Project Overview

Riggs Distler is proud to have been chosen as the turnkey construction solution provider for a major energy storage project in Sussex County, New Jersey. Our client, a leading utility company, was looking to improve network reliability by installing a 20 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) using the latest in battery storage technology. The BESS collects energy from the grid and stores it for later use, providing ancillary services during peak and demanding times to help balance the electric grid.

Our team of experts provided Civil, Overhead Distribution, and Electrical work to make the project a reality. The Civil Scope included the installation of sediment control berm, stripping of existing topsoil, installation of DGA, finish rock and riprap, excavation of detention basin, installation of an access road to an existing turnaround, perimeter fencing and gates, and foundations for 6 BESS enclosures, 6 PCS Skids, and 6 electrical equipment.

The Overhead Scope included the installation of four utility poles with fused cutouts, metering cluster, gang operated air brake switch. The Electrical Scope included the installation of an 800kva transformer, a 1000Amp Aux Distribution Switchgear, a 1200Amp 35kv Switchgear, 6 BESS PCS Skids, 6 BESS Enclosures, SITE communication equipment, equipment grounding and system bonding, underground raceways and cabling, cabling and terminations for various voltage systems, and emergency shutdown pushbuttons.

Challenges Overcome:

One of the key challenges we faced during the project was dealing with lead times for electrical gear. To overcome this, our team planned sequential work around deliveries in order to keep the project moving forward. This required a high level of coordination and planning, but our dedicated team was able to successfully navigate these obstacles to ensure the project was completed on time.

Another challenge we faced was the tight deadline for the project. Despite this, our team was able to carefully plan and execute the work, ensuring that the site was operational by September 2022. This allowed the client to start generating revenue from the BESS system as soon as possible.