Overview of BESS Technology: Insights from the IMechE BESS Webinar

By Andres Blanco MEng MSc CEng MIET
Managing Director, Blanboz Limited / a.blanco@blanboz.com / www.linkedin.com/in/andresblanco77

On 5 August 2025, Harry Thomson and I had the pleasure of presenting at the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) webinar, where we explored the technical and commercial dimensions of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). The session aimed to demystify the complexities of #BESS and highlight its critical role in the energy transition. Discover the most valuable insights from our recent webinar by reviewing the key points outlined below. Don't miss out—download our slide decks and watch the full webinar recap on our YouTube channel to stay ahead!

Why BESS Matters

As conventional thermal plants retire and renewable energy sources proliferate across distribution and transmission networks, the need for reliable energy storage becomes paramount. #BESS offers the flexibility and responsiveness required to balance supply and demand, ensuring grid stability and resilience.

Understanding BESS Technology

We began with the fundamentals of BESS chemistry, focusing on Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO₄). The presentation covered:

• Lithium’s atomic structure and global sourcing, particularly from the Lithium Triangle (Chile, Argentina, Bolivia), as well as Australia and emerging regions like Uruguay and the Republic of Congo.
• Contributions from pioneers such as Stanley Whittingham, Sir John Goodenough, and Akira Yoshino.
• The composition of battery cells, modules, racks, and the Power Conversion System (PCS), including IGBT and SiC MOSFET technologies.

Technical Parameters and Safety

Key performance metrics such as nominal capacity and C-rate were explained. We also addressed critical safety concerns:

• Fire and explosion risks, including thermal runaway scenarios and mitigation strategies.
• Safety standards such as NFPA 855, UL9540A, UL1973, and UN38.3.

Design and Integration

We showcased various #BESS configurations, including DC and AC blocks, and discussed separation distances based on OEM guidelines. Integration with Balance of Plant (BOP) and grid infrastructure was also covered, emphasising the importance of harmonised design and installation practices.

Quality Assurance and Testing

Ensuring long-term reliability requires rigorous testing:

• Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT)
• Delivery Acceptance and Commissioning Tests
• Operational Phase Testing

Each stage includes clear pass/fail criteria and rejection thresholds to safeguard performance.

Investment and Commercial Strategy

We broke down investment phases into DEVEX, CAPEX, and OPEX, highlighting:

• Planning and grid connection agreements
• Equipment costs and installation
• Long-term service agreements and asset management

Commercial risk mitigation strategies included detailed technical specifications, RACI matrices, and Incoterms (FOB, DAP, DDP). Liquidated damages clauses were also discussed to protect against delays and underperformance.

Market Outlook and Future Trends

The webinar concluded with a look at current market mechanisms and future developments:

• Revenue streams from capacity markets, ancillary services, and wholesale electricity trading
• Emerging technologies such as sodium, solid-state, redox flow, and zinc batteries
• The dominance of Li-ion until 2030, with other chemistries gaining traction

We emphasised the importance of stacked revenue models and robust route-to-market strategies to maximise returns.

Final Thoughts

#BESS is no longer a niche technology—it’s a cornerstone of modern energy systems. As we strive to meet net-zero targets and enhance energy security, understanding the technical and commercial intricacies of #BESS is essential. At Blanboz, we remain committed to supporting clients through every stage of their energy storage journey.

Webinar Material: