The Facility Energy Resource Optimization (FERO) Model by Blue Strike is a comprehensive framework designed to optimize energy consumption and cost efficiency for facilities, focusing on applications such as water treatment plants. The FERO Model uses a dual approach, analyzing energy demand (demand-side scenarios) and energy supply (supply-side scenarios) to determine the most cost-effective configurations under varying operational and energy supply conditions. By adjusting load profiles and leveraging on-site renewable energy and storage, the model supports substantial savings on Time-of-Use (TOU) rates and peak demand charges.

The model evaluated three demand scenarios (Business-As-Usual (BAU), Scenario A, and Scenario B), shifting peak energy use to lower-cost times or solar production hours. On the supply side, the model examined seven different energy configurations, including grid-only, grid with solar, and grid with solar plus Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). The case study highlighted that the BAU scenario combined with 6 MW of solar and 12 MWh of BESS resulted in the highest annual cost savings, achieving a 42% reduction in energy expenses compared to grid-only consumption.

Key figures illustrate these savings. For example:

Figure 1 shows how BESS can effectively manage energy demand by charging during solar production and discharging during peak TOU hours.

FIGURE 1: BATTERY CHARGE AND DISCHARGE SCHEDULE OF A REPRESENTATIVE WEEK

Figure 2 provides an annual consumption profile for the 6 MW Solar + 12 MWh BESS scenario, showing reduced grid dependency and smoother consumption patterns.

FIGURE 2: ANNUAL ENERGY CONSUMPTION OVERVIEW FOR A 6MW SOLAR & 12MWH BESS SCENARIO

Table 1 ranks cost savings, with the BAU scenario + 6 MW Solar + 12 MWh BESS as the top choice, followed by a similar configuration with 5 MW solar and 10 MWh BESS, both of which significantly lower costs compared to baseline grid use.

TABLE 1: MOST COST EFFICIENT LOAD PROFILES AND ENERGY SCENARIOS

The FERO Model’s flexibility is a defining feature, allowing it to be tailored for different facility sizes, geographic locations, and budget constraints. It can adapt to multiple consumption meters and site-specific TOU rates, making it suitable for facilities across various sectors. This flexibility supports dynamic load management, including load shifting, peak shaving, and the optimal integration of on-site solar and battery storage. Additionally, the model can include Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) and value resiliency in scenarios to improve sustainability outcomes and increase financial returns.

Through these features, the FERO Model not only enables substantial financial savings but also enhances operational resiliency by supporting energy autonomy during grid outages. With integration opportunities for demand response programs and the CAISO ancillary services market, facilities can further benefit from grid services and demand flexibility incentives.

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