#United States #Energy Toolbase #BPI #Korbel Winery #Guerneville

Energy Innovations at Korbel Winery

In a significant development for sustainability in the wine industry, Energy Toolbase, along with Napa-based EPC contractor BPi, has recently completed the deployment of three advanced energy storage systems (ESS) at the iconic Korbel Winery in California. This initiative embodies the winery's ongoing commitment to harness renewable energy and to strive for increased sustainability across its operations.

The energy storage solutions consisted of three state-of-the-art BYD battery systems, all of which were combined with the ETB Controller energy management system from Energy Toolbase. The primary aim of this sophisticated system is to manage and optimize energy utilization, reduce demand charges on the facility, navigate existing grid limitations, and ensure efficient energy usage under time-of-use (TOU) billing tariffs. Moreover, the project is crucial in addressing the local grid's constraints, specifically a 980 kW AC export cap enforced by Pacific Gas and Electric (PGE). This cap has posed challenges, but the innovative solutions proposed by Energy Toolbase and BPi serve to circumvent these restrictions, thereby facilitating maximum renewable energy generation on site and yielding significant savings on energy costs.

To navigate the local grid's design constraints efficiently, BPi implemented a strategic limited export control using SEL-751 relays and inline contactors. Meanwhile, the ETB Controller, powered by Acumen AI™, is tasked with real-time management of the BYD batteries, ensuring compliance with set parameters by BPi. By simultaneously limiting energy exports to adhere to regulatory caps and dynamically dispatching battery power, the system effectively mitigates expensive demand spikes for the winery.

Energy Toolbase has streamlined what can often be a cumbersome procurement and commissioning process, allowing BPi to execute the installation smoothly and efficiently. The project showcases an impressive 852 kW of rooftop solar power distributed across four winery buildings, complementing the three BYD CHESS units installed—each capable of delivering 120 kW and storing 266 kWh, cumulatively providing a robust energy storage capability of 360 kW and 798 kWh.

This collaborative effort is particularly noteworthy; as Kevin Mulvey, Vice President of Operations at Energy Toolbase, pointed out, "This project is a powerful example of how intelligent software paired with modular energy storage can overcome complex grid constraints while delivering immediate, measurable value." His team worked closely with BPi to navigate the intricate interconnection requirements, deploying a durable solution that is already reaping significant savings for Korbel Winery.

Johann Smit, President of BPi, echoed similar sentiments emphasizing Korbel Winery's dedication to sustainability as a pivotal factor in their successful collaboration. He remarked, "By integrating rooftop solar with cutting-edge battery technology and intelligent energy management systems, we have developed a solution that not only cuts down energy costs but also bolsters operational resilience. This project epitomizes how meticulous engineering can tackle grid limitations and yield long-term benefits."

The partnership between Energy Toolbase and BPi not only brings to light the possibilities inherent in contemporary energy solutions but exemplifies the potential for established industries, such as winemaking, to transition toward a more sustainable future. As forward-thinking entities like Korbel Winery embrace renewable energy technologies, they lead by example in advancing ecological stewardship within their sectors.

Moving forward, as more industries and businesses recognize the importance of renewable energy and intelligent systems in their operational frameworks, solutions like those implemented at Korbel Winery will likely become standard practice, showcasing the role of innovation in driving sustainability and operational efficiency.