The Self-consumption optimization is one of the most effective levers for sustainably reducing energy costs in a company. Especially in Behind-the-Meter (BTM) Operation enables the use of Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) significantly more efficient use of self-generated energy - for example from photovoltaic or CHP systems.
Companies can thus reduce their grid electricity consumption, lower electricity costs, and make their energy supply more independent.
Self-consumption optimization
Self-consumption optimization describes the targeted use of self-generated electricity within one's own company, instead of feeding it into the public grid. The goal is clear: Consume as much of your own electricity as possible instead of selling it cheaply and buying it back expensively.
Without Large-scale battery storage is the self-consumption rate in many cases only at 30–40 %. With a BESS, on the other hand ≥ 70 % realistic.
How does self-consumption optimization with BESS work?
The principle is simple, but extremely effective economically:
- Solar power systems generate electricity primarily Afternoon
- However, the company's electricity demand often arises time-delayed (e.g., in the morning, in the evening, or at night)
Without memory, that means:
- Surpluses are fed in (low remuneration)
- At the same time, electricity will be purchased expensively from the grid later on.
A BESS solves exactly this problem:
- Storage of PV surpluses
- Delayed use in your own operation
- Automated control via an energy management system (EMS)
The energy management systemEMStakes into account:
- Lastprofile
- Electricity prices and tariffs
- Weather forecasts
- PV generation
Economic benefits of self-consumption optimization
The effects are immediately measurable and have a direct impact on operating costs:
- Replacement of mains power:
Self-generated electricity replaces expensive electricity procurement (typical 15–20 ct/kWh or more) - Higher self-consumption rate:
Increase of approximately 30–40 % to ≥ 70 % - Reduction of grid fees and levies
- Faster payback of the PV or BESS investment
Every additional kilowatt-hour used by yourself improves the cost-effectiveness.
Regulatory Frameworks as an Additional Driver
The importance of self-consumption optimization is also increasing due to new regulatory requirements:
- For new solar PV systems, there is an increasing trend towards Limiting the feed-in power (e.g., 60 %) without a controller
- Excess electricity often has to be to be regulated
That means: Valuable energy is lost.
A BESS, on the other hand, allows:
- Storage instead of shutdown
- Later use in operation
- Optional grid-friendly use (e.g., during negative electricity prices)
Additional benefits for businesses
In addition to the direct cost effects, there are additional strategic advantages:
- Greater energy independence
- Stabilization of the power supply during operation
- Reduction of CO₂ emissions and certificate costs
- Grid relief
Especially in an industrial setting, self-consumption is thus becoming a central component of modern energy strategies.
Who benefits most from self-consumption optimization?
The use of BESS for self-consumption optimization is particularly sensible for companies with:
- high power consumption
- Own PV, CHP, or wind power plant
- Peak loads or fluctuating consumption
- rising energy and network costs
The higher the difference between the feed-in tariff and the electricity price, the greater the economic advantage.
Conclusion: Self-consumption optimization is the key to profitability
Self-consumption optimization using BESS is one of the most efficient measures to sustainably reduce energy costs in a company.
By intelligently storing and using self-generated electricity, you can:
- Significantly reduce electricity costs
- Massively increase self-consumption rates
- avoid regulatory disadvantages
- Amortize investments faster
This makes it clear: A BESS (Battery Energy Storage System) in a grid-connected operation is not just a technical add-on, but a central economic cornerstone of modern energy supply.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is self-consumption optimization?
Self-consumption optimization means using as much self-generated electricity as possible within your own company instead of feeding it into the grid.
How does a BESS help?
A battery storage system stores excess electricity and makes it available with a time delay – precisely when it is needed.
What is the self-consumption rate with storage?
With BESS, self-consumption rates of well over 90% are possible.
Why does that make economic sense?
Because self-consumed electricity replaces expensive grid electricity (approx. 15–20 cents/kWh), while fed-in electricity is poorly compensated.
Is self-consumption optimization worthwhile for every company?
It is particularly attractive economically for companies with their own power generation and high energy demand.