Ringgaarden’s Sustainable Transformation with XOLTAs BESS
Executive Summary
Ringgaarden, a social housing association in Aarhus, Denmark, is at the forefront of sustainable living. Through the EU-funded climate project READY, managed by COWI, Ringgaarden has embraced a green transition, modernizing its Trigeparken complex with improved energy efficiency and rooftop PV panels. The addition of Xolta’s Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) with a 120 kWh capacity ensures that clean, locally produced energy meets the residents’ needs efficiently, day and night.
Client Overview: Ringgaarden Housing Association
Location: Aarhus, Denmark
Challenge: To modernize housing units for higher energy efficiency and utilize locally produced solar energy optimally, overcoming the variability of solar production.
The Situation
As part of its commitment to sustainability, Ringgaarden has upgraded its Trigeparken complex with rooftop PV panels. However, the mismatch between solar energy production and the residents’ consumption patterns highlighted the need for an innovative energy storage solution.
The Solution
Ringgaarden implemented a large Xolta BESS, comprising two racks—one with new batteries and the other with cost-effective second-life batteries. This system stores excess solar energy for use during peak demand times, supported by cloud-based software that optimizes battery utilization based on consumption data, weather forecasts, and energy prices.
The Outcome
- Enhanced Sustainability: The BESS enables the use of cleaner, locally produced electricity, reducing reliance on the grid and fossil fuels.
- Cost Savings: Residents benefit from cheaper electricity, thanks to the efficient storage and use of solar energy.
- Innovation in Recycling: The project showcases innovative applications for second-life car batteries, contributing to the circular economy.
Ringgaarden’s initiative, supported by the READY project and Xolta’s innovative BESS, exemplifies how social housing can lead the way in sustainable living. This model not only improves energy efficiency and reduces costs but also demonstrates the potential of second-life batteries in renewable energy systems.