The Texas Battery Boom: A Look at the Growth of BESS and How to Get Involved

The energy landscape of Texas is changing rapidly. While still a major oil producer, the state is seeing a surge in renewable energy, especially wind and solar. This shift brings challenges, primarily the intermittent nature of these resources. This Financial Time’s video highlights how battery energy storage systems (BESS) are emerging as a critical solution to balance the grid and ensure reliable power supply in Texas.

Complimentary to BESS, a recent report from SEIA highlights a clear trend over the last three years where Texas has become the largest installer of PV in the US (source).

Check out this excellent overview from the Financial Times to learn more about how Texas is deploying solar + batteries at scale.

Key takeaways: 

• Peak demand shift: Solar power has shifted peak demand to the evening when the sun sets, creating a need for a power source to fill the gap. BESS can discharge stored energy during these critical periods, ensuring grid stability. 
• Rapid growth of BESS in Texas: While California currently leads in deployed battery capacity, Texas is projected to surpass it by 2026 due to planned BESS projects. 
• Economic drivers: Texas’ deregulated energy market allows BESS operators to profit from price volatility by charging during low-price periods (often when solar generation is high) and discharging during high-demand, high-price periods. 
• Meeting growing energy demands: Population growth, data centers, and the electrification of transport and industries are driving the need for increased energy storage solutions.

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Foundations of BESS
by Drew Lebowitz

The video from Financial Times clearly demonstrates the booming BESS sector in Texas and the career opportunities it presents. If you’re interested in becoming a part of this exciting field, Drew Lebowitz’s “Foundations of Battery Energy Storage Systems” course on HeatSpring is an excellent place to start. 

This comprehensive online course, taught by the lead author of “The BESS Book,” will equip you with the essential knowledge for the energy storage sector.  Here’s what you’ll gain:

• Technical Expertise: Understand the lifecycle of BESS from cell chemistry to grid integration, covering various applications (residential, commercial, utility-scale). 
• Project Development Skills: Learn to evaluate and plan BESS projects, including system sizing, component selection, and navigating technical, financial, and regulatory requirements. 
• Safety and Best Practices: Develop expertise in BESS safety protocols, hazard identification, mitigation strategies, and emergency response procedures. 
• Performance Analysis: Gain the ability to analyze BESS performance, conduct operational tests, troubleshoot issues, and implement maintenance procedures. 
• Career Guidance: Explore career paths within this high-growth sector and learn about different BESS project types and their applications.

Enroll in Drew Lebowitz’s energy storage course to develop practical skills for this growing industry. The program provides technical knowledge and industry insights to help advance your career in clean energy.

The course offers:

• Flexible Learning: Self-paced structure with 12 months of access to course materials. 
• Engaging Content: 3+ hours of video lectures, assignments, and case studies. 
• Valuable Networking: A discussion board to interact with the instructor and fellow students. 
• Certificate of Completion: Earn a HeatSpring certificate upon course completion. 

NABCEP CEU Hours: The course offers 3.5 NABCEP CEU hours which can be applied towards several certifications, including the PV Installation Professional (PVIP) and Energy Storage Installation Professional (ESIP) certifications.