More and more companies run into the same wall: their grid connection is too small for a growing energy demand, while the queue for additional capacity at the grid operator can take years. For retailer Zeeman, this challenge became very concrete at its distribution centre in Alphen aan den Rijn.
The challenge
Zeeman is rolling out a new automated order-picking system at its central DC. The new installation significantly increases the site's electricity demand and pushes Zeeman's existing 400 kW connection to its limits. To keep growing — and to keep supplying its stores reliably — Zeeman needs roughly three times more capacity. A standard reinforcement of the connection by grid operator Liander would mean years of waiting due to grid congestion in the region.
The solution: a CBC contract combined with battery-as-a-service
Together with Liander, Zeeman explored a Capacity Limiting Contract (CBC). With this contract type, Zeeman gets access to up to 1,200 kW of capacity, on the condition that the connection is automatically curtailed during the few hours per year when the grid is under heavy load. To handle those moments without disrupting operations, a 3,000 kWh battery system from EcoPowerCell is installed on site. The battery covers peaks during curtailment and absorbs short-term fluctuations from the automated order-picking lines.
The clever part: Zeeman does not buy or lease the battery. EcoPowerCell delivers the system as-a-service. Certified Service Provider Eddy Grid uses the battery on the energy markets when it is not needed for Zeeman's own operations. The trading revenues co-finance the system, which is why the battery is effectively 'free' for Zeeman.
The partners
Hoppenbrouwers Elektrotechniek handled the installation and integration into the existing electrical infrastructure. Impact Energy advised Zeeman during the tender and helped shape the commercial agreements between all parties involved.
The result
- Connection capacity tripled from 400 kW to 1,200 kW
- 3,000 kWh of battery storage on site, delivered as-a-service
- €0 investment from Zeeman in the battery system
- Continued growth of the distribution centre without falling back on diesel generators
- Active contribution to grid stability in the region
How Skoon helped
Through the Skoon Flex Procurement Platform we brought the right parties around the table — grid operator, battery supplier, CSP, installer and advisor — and helped structure the procurement so that the entire stack could be contracted quickly and transparently. This is exactly the kind of project our community is built for: turning grid congestion from a blocker into a business case.
Want to explore whether a similar setup could work for your site? Get in touch with our team or start with a Flex Scan.
Photo © vdwalbeeld