Empowering the Energy Transition: A comprehensive analysis of Battery Energy Storage Systems

The climate crisis requires significant changes across society. While reducing emissions remains crucial, the intermittent nature of renewables like wind and solar poses challenges. Innovative energy storage solutions are needed to enhance the reliability, stability, and accessibility of renewable energy. The adoption of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) is decisive in addressing the criticalities of transitioning to a sustainable energy system more rapidly. This thesis examines the regulatory, technological, and economic context that influences the diffusion of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), with a focus on the European and Italian situations. It covers the initial developments of energy storage technologies, including mechanical, chemical, electrochemical, and electrical storage. Additionally, it provides a cost analysis based on CAPEX/OPEX data of BESS projects developed in Italy. The revenue section examines the Italian electric market's size and regulatory scope, the incentive schemes required for full investment profitability (Fast Reserve, Capacity Market, and Decreto Grandi Accumuli), and the latest updates from Terna regarding the MACSE mechanism. Additionally, this thesis provides a European overview of recent BESS projects and presents a case study that highlights key considerations for designing a BESS plant, including compliance with urban and territorial regulations, detailed system descriptions, grid connections, and related infrastructure. The conclusions emphasize the significance of investing in the expansion of BESS to ensure a secure, clean, and efficient energy future. However, it raises the question of whether society is prepared to embrace growth and innovation to address global climate challenges.