As the lead design-build firm that is co-developing battery energy storage system (BESS) projects nationwide, RETTEW implemented this technology at the Atlantic County Utilities Authority (ACUA) Wastewater Treatment Plant. The 1 MW/1 MWhr BESS furthers ACUA’s efforts to implement progressive energy technology at the plant. The BESS supports overall grid operations, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, improves the integration of renewable energy sources, and provides additional capacity to the grid in times of need.

The BESS is part of the PJM grid’s Frequency Regulation Program, so it responds to signals to balance local grid supply and demand. Inside the facility’s microgrid, the battery will first use wind and solar power, if available, to charge when prompted. The battery also charges during off-peak times and then discharges during peak times to reduce peak energy needs. This technology can also serve as emergency backup during energy shortfalls or service interruptions. This clean energy resource is changing today’s power grid, requiring less reliance on power plants and other sources for additional energy, while not forcing entities like ACUA to reduce their own consumption.