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Top Features to Look for in Energy Storage Software 

As renewable energy sources become more complex, energy management systems (EMS) are becoming even more essential for businesses and utilities. These systems manage and optimize the performance of distributed energy resources to ensure maximum return on investment. For instance, microgrids require advanced EMS capabilities to oversee the flow of energy and balance energy generation, consumption, and storage. An EMS also enables participants to adjust energy use depending on market signals and grid conditions to optimize savings while supporting the grid through demand response programs. Additionally, an EMS is crucial for facilities operating off-grid or in remote locations, as it can intelligently switch between various energy sources, store surplus energy, and anticipate consumption patterns to allow these off-grid systems to function properly.  

There are several factors to consider when selecting an EMS to help achieve specific goals, including comprehensive control, real-time monitoring, and predictive analytics. 

Comprehensive Control

An EMS with comprehensive control capabilities is critical to effectively monetize your energy assets. Energy Toolbase’s Acumen EMS™ allows for seamless integration, value stacking, and the ability to oversee operating modes.  

Acumen EMS seamlessly integrates with over a dozen ESS, PCS, and battery hardware vendors including tier-one hardware providers like BYD, Tesla, Socomec, and Delta, ensuring users have access to the best solutions available to optimize their assets. Acumen EMS also provides the advanced control features needed to fully optimize your energy asset for maximum economic performance with value stacking by combining multiple value streams like demand response programs, grid services, and various EMS controls applications. These advanced control features maximize revenue streams by prioritizing the most lucrative application at any time. Finally, Acumen EMS gives users full control over their DERs by programmatically or manually assigning operating modes, managing start and stop times, and customizing options that influence system behavior at site and special program levels. 

Real-Time Monitoring

Tracking the performance and health of your energy storage assets in real-time is essential for identifying and addressing issues before they escalate and incur higher costs for customers. Real-time data offers insights into the state of charge, power output, and system efficiency, enabling quick and informed decision-making. Energy Toolbase’s ETB Monitor provides a comprehensive real-time monitoring dashboard with granular visibility into system performance, along with a detailed breakdown of the exact utility bill savings associated with both energy storage and solar. 

Predictive Analytics

Predictive analytics leverages historical data and machine learning algorithms to forecast future performance and potential issues. This helps optimize charge and discharge cycles, predict maintenance needs, and reduce operational costs. Energy Toolbase’s integrated advanced predictive analytics allows users to simulate different scenarios and make data-driven decisions. In addition, ETB Developer users can access detailed information using our ETB Analytics tool, which assists in precise calculations of costs and savings. 

Choosing the right EMS with key features is crucial for maximizing the efficiency and ROI of your energy storage systems. Energy Toolbase’s Acumen EMS stands out for its comprehensive control, real-time monitoring, and predictive analytics. Schedule a call with our team to learn how to get started with deploying Acumen EMS on your storage projects.