Baku: Azerbaijan is embarking on a significant advancement in the energy sector as it initiates the construction of the region’s largest Battery Storage Systems (BESS).

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, these projects are part of a broader effort to enhance the development of renewable energy sources in the country. The systems, with a total capacity of 250 megawatts and 500 megawatt-hours, are being established by Azerenergy at the 500-kilovolt Absheron substation near the capital and the 220-kilovolt Agdash substation in the central region.

The implementation of these systems marks a first not only for Azerbaijan but also for the entire CIS region. The construction work is currently underway, with elements being manufactured and delivered as per order. The creation of these Battery Storage Systems is crucial for improving the stability of the energy system, ensuring frequency stability, reducing interruptions in renewable energy sources, and compensating for active power shortages. These systems will also help meet peak loads, smooth the load schedule during sunset hours, and restore the energy system from zero in the event of an accident.

AzerEnergy is also pursuing a large-scale program to integrate 2 Gigawatt solar and wind power plants into the network by 2027. As part of this initiative, the ‘Navahi’ Energy Hub, one of the country’s largest substations, is being constructed to serve as a significant network junction. The hub will facilitate the laying of 500 kV and 330 kV high-voltage transmission lines across various directions in the country. Additionally, efforts are being made to enhance digitalization and grid management to further improve the energy infrastructure.