FAQs

EPC Energy

Have an energy-related question? We have the answer. Check out these FAQs and give us a call today for more information!

Do I need to find an EMS provider if I install an EPC Energy BESS?

That is not needed as we provide our aiMacsTM Energy Management. Customers have the option to use their own EMS provider for advanced features. Our aiMacsTM Energy Management offers full compatibility with any mainstream third-party EMS. If you need energy storage services, don’t hesitate to get in touch with EPC Energy today.

What services does EPC Energy offer?

EPC Energy can help you with your battery project at any point in the process. We can provide system sizing and modeling, design the system, procure the battery system, provide EMS, install and commission the system, handle O&M, warranty the system, and more. We can also provide complete service from conceptual design to site commissioning. Whatever your needs are, you can rely on our team for containerized energy storage systems and more. Call today!

How do EPC Energy’s BESS products improve energy efficiency for commercial properties?

Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) products improve energy efficiency for commercial properties in several ways, including energy storage, peak shaving, maximizing renewable energy usage, enhancing energy management, improving grid stability, reducing carbon footprint, and increasing energy cost savings. BESS allows commercial properties to store energy during periods of low demand and discharge it during peak demand periods. Through all of these processes, energy efficiency is improved. For reliable energy storage services, don’t hesitate to contact EPC Energy.

Can EPC Energy’s BESS integrate with existing solar installations?

Yes, EPC Energy’s BESS can integrate with existing solar installations through AC coupling. The systems can provide standard voltages of 480Vac, or 208Vac as needed. Our Energy Management System (EMS) treats solar generation and load consumption as a net load for its control logic. For hybrid solutions, our five-foot outdoor energy storage system cabinets come with a hybrid inverter that allows DC coupling, supporting up to three DC inverters with a maximum of 45 kW DC or 105A DC input each. If you have any questions, contact us today.

How does EPC Energy’s BESS help in reducing energy costs?

EPC Energy’s Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) can help reduce energy costs in several ways.

Firstly, through energy arbitrage, our BESS can be charged during off-peak hours when electricity costs are lower and then used during peak hours when costs are higher.

Secondly, through peak shaving, BESS can be charged during low consumption times when energy costs are low. The system can then discharge during periods of high consumption to minimize the use of high-cost energy. This reduces the maximum demand, thereby lowering demand charges.

Lastly, our BESS can reduce energy costs through solar integration. In states like California and Hawaii, exporting excess solar energy to the grid is not encouraged. Our BESS can store the energy that the facility cannot consume and discharge it later. Additionally, by integrating BESS with solar, the facility can become more self-sustainable and energy-independent, providing the option to choose whether or not to use energy from the grid.

Does your property need energy storage services? Contact EPC Energy today!

Can EPC Energy’s BESS be used in off-grid applications?

Yes, our systems are designed for off-grid applications. Additional parts such as Automatic Transfer Switches (ATS) and critical panels need to be purchased separately. Our systems come with basic control for off-grid applications and a monitoring interface for the BESS system. To manage other generation resources in off-grid applications, it is recommended to acquire our microgrid controller add-on package or a third-party microgrid controller. For outdoor energy storage system cabinets and other energy solutions, contact us.

How do I determine the right size PV+BESS for my commercial property?

The optimal size depends on the breakeven point/IRR of the BESS and the available space for BESS containers. The breakeven point is influenced by the electricity usage profile of the facility. We utilize modeling software that considers a one-year load profile of the property and calculates potential savings based on different sizes of BESS. The available space becomes particularly critical in urban projects where space constraints, clearance requirements, and city codes must be carefully evaluated to determine the appropriate BESS size. EPC Energy can help to analyze the electricity usage data and come up with a PV+BESS sizing with a good return on investment and maximum savings. For containerized energy storage systems and other energy solutions, contact us today.

What is the typical return on investment (ROI) period for EPC Energy’s BESS products?

The ROI period varies depending on several factors, such as federal policies, state policies, electricity prices, building consumption patterns, and application types. In our experience, ROI ranges from three to six years with ITC, other state renewable incentives, and capital depreciation. Facilities with high demand charge rates in states like California often experience shorter ROI periods due to state incentives and high electricity costs. Solar PV plus storage projects generally offer better returns than standalone storage projects, benefiting from the synergy of storing excess solar energy for later use. Some ROIs may appear less favorable, but customers value BESS for its backup functionality and high resilience. To learn more about our energy storage services and solutions, get in touch with us today.

What differentiates EPC Energy’s BESS products from competitors?

EPC Energy proudly offers turnkey systems, integrated cloud-based controls, high safety features, string inverter architecture, and environmental sustainability throughout all of our energy storage services and solutions. Additionally, we have strong partnerships with tier-one LFP battery suppliers as well as third-party software to ensure optimal solutions. For more information, contact EPC Energy today.

Are there any specific incentives or rebates available for installing EPC Energy’s BESS?

There are a variety of incentives that collectively support the financial viability and adoption of energy storage services and systems, contributing to broader energy goals such as increased renewable energy integration, enhanced grid reliability, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Read more about them below:

SGIP (Self-Generation Incentive Program) Description:
SGIP is a program in California that provides incentives for the installation of distributed energy systems, including energy storage systems. It aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, reduce peak electricity demand, and support grid reliability. SGIP provides rebates for both residential and non-residential customers.

ITC (Investment Tax Credit) Description:
The ITC is a federal tax credit that supports the adoption of renewable energy technologies, including energy storage systems. It allows businesses and homeowners to deduct a percentage of the cost of installing renewable energy systems from their federal taxes. The ITC covers a percentage of the installation costs, which has been stepped down over the years but remains a significant incentive.

MACRS (Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System) Description:
MACRS is a depreciation system in the United States that allows businesses to recover investments in certain properties through depreciation deductions. Energy storage systems can qualify for accelerated depreciation under MACRS.

Federal and State Grants and Rebates:
Various grants and rebate programs are available at both the federal and state levels to support energy storage projects.

Utility Programs:
Some utilities offer specific programs and incentives for customers who install energy storage systems, aiming to enhance grid stability and efficiency.

Contact EPC Energy today to learn more about our services.