IHI Terrasun Pioneers Digital Infrastructure Framework for BESS
Digital infrastructure creates the digital communication superhighway for battery energy storage systems (BESS) projects. Encompassing computer systems, servers, networks, and security devices, this complex framework is crucial for controlling, managing data and operations flow to and from battery systems and solar panels, trackers, and other equipment.
At IHI Terrasun, our Digital Infrastructure supports everything from hosting portals and authentication services in the cloud to the on-premises systems that enable control of energy storage and generation assets. Over our decade of BESS project integration, we’ve developed a Digital Infrastructure model to efficiently deploy, commission and maintain projects.
On-site or In the Cloud: Core Components of Digital Infrastructure
The on-site digital infrastructure for BESS projects includes physical systems that connect Assured ControlsTM equipment to batteries and inverters. This infrastructure acts as a central communication command, coordinating and monitoring operations to ensure everything runs smoothly and safely. For instance, when a site receives a command to start generating power, the digital infrastructure handles the communication for all relevant equipment, as the medium relaying the important information across the site to Control System, helping to ensure it's safe to proceed.
The cloud infrastructure serves as the interface for remote access to the site. Cloud-based services implemented by IHI Terrasun allow authorized users to log into the site portal, view site performance, and access data. The tools that make up Digital Infrastructure facilitate seamless transitions between remote site management (as is often done with energy storage projects) and onsite equipment, ensuring smooth operation of the site.
4 Key digital infrastructure considerations for owners and BESS project developers
- Security: As technology becomes increasingly vulnerable to sophisticated threats, cybersecurity must be a paramount component to any digital infrastructure.
- High Availability: Well-designed digital infrastructure can make the difference between a non-impactful failover event or a service-impacting outage. Systems must be right sized from the start, designed for redundancy, and maintained regularly to ensure continuous operation.
- Integration and Commissioning: Commissioning BESS sites can be a complex, time-consuming and frustrating process. Staging, configuration, and validation of the digital infrastructure components prior to arrival on-site, and effective integration between digital infrastructure and field engineering teams can significantly speed up commissioning and reduce risk of delays.
- Long-Term Maintenance: Planning for the future is essential. Projects should include provisions for ongoing maintenance and updates.
How IHI Terrasun resolves the challenges of digital infrastructure
Rigorous Security Controls — Cybersecurity is a top priority for IHI Terrasun, and we implement best practices and robust controls to protect onsite assets. This is a key differentiator, as many competitors offer solutions that lack comprehensive security measures.
Efficiency and Right-Sizing — IHI Terrasun's engineering team focuses on accurately sizing the digital infrastructure to match the specific needs of each project. We carefully assess the plant's size, its data requirements and expected load, then select servers and network equipment that are appropriately scaled. Regular reviews ensure that as technology advances and efficiencies improve, the infrastructure remains optimized for performance and cost.
Commissioning and Integration — IHI Terrasun’s teams excel in this area, thanks to our deep integration of teams across digital infrastructure, field services, and software development. Our ability to quickly diagnose problems, whether they stem from faulty cabling, incorrect fiber installations or other issues, allows us to significantly reduce commissioning times. Additionally, our digital infrastructure team creates tools and dashboards for the field commissioning teams, working in sync to expedite project commissioning and optimize performance.
Long-Term Maintenance and Service — Our integrated teams not only provide expert initial solutions but also focus on long-term service, including maintenance schedules and end-of-life replacements of the digital infrastructure components. This proactive approach ensures that equipment is maintained before it breaks, preventing costly downtime. Similarly, we are committed to keeping systems up to date through regular software patching and upgrades. We test all patches in controlled environments before deploying them to production sites, ensuring stability and security.
IHI Terrasun’s thoughtful design ensures reliability
Our commitment to security, redundancy, efficiency, and long-term service makes IHI Terrasun a leader in BESS digital infrastructure. Our deep integration of digital infrastructure expertise with field services and O&M teams further sets us apart. This integration ensures that projects are not only completed efficiently but are also maintained to the highest standards over their lifespan.