As energy storage tech has evolved, a conventional controller, or energy management system, with a preset strategy or manual operations has been superseded by the automated and dynamic controllers, such as ETB Controller. This system delivers significant benefits in time savings, cost optimization, and the agility to respond to real-time changes.

While some organizations still rely on daily charging windows, automation takes efficiency to another level, independently responding to fluctuations in demand and tariffs as needed. In this blog, we’ll clarify the benefits of advanced energy storage controllers and explain why automation is a priority for energy-intensive facilities, from solar power charging stations to corporate data centers.

Contrasts Between the ETB Controller From Energy Toolbase and Non-Automated Alternatives

Energy storage controllers are a vital part of a battery system’s performance, connecting with the grid, on-site power sources, and programs while tracking demand and energy usage within a building or site, and optimizing performance.  Typically, controllers are set for either demand or strategy, which means they work in one of two ways:

  • Demand-focused controllers react to peak power usage, discharging before demand reaches a threshold maximum to avoid exposure to peak prices.
  • Strategy-based controllers follow predefined actions, usually charging overnight when energy prices are lower and discharging in the day, or following fixed grid service participation plans.

 

Although neither approach is necessarily wrong, the issue is that reacting only to demand or adopting a rigid strategy that can’t adapt quickly means organizations are operating based on standardized rules that won’t always optimize outcomes. Automation removes those gaps and vulnerabilities by providing continuous performance analytics, monitoring value streams to eliminate the need for time-consuming manual interventions, and optimizing in real time.

The benefits are compelling, with the ETB Controller contributing to overall improvements in system performance through the smart application of AI-enabled data intelligence.

Why Static Energy Management Isn’t Suited to Modern Markets

Automated energy management system controllers are undoubtedly beneficial, but they’ve become increasingly relevant in recent years, as energy market volatility has made response speeds essential. Rather than energy prices simply varying between peak and off-peak rates, tariffs can fluctuate multiple times a day. 

Combined with more dynamic grid services markets and the introduction of renewables, which are far less predictable than fuelled energy sources, basing key decisions and strategies on off-peak tariffs no longer works. This is why an EMS controller incorporates next-gen technology: it removes the pressure and complexity of manually adjusting strategies numerous times a day, while ensuring your control systems are as dynamic as the energy markets.

How Modern Energy Storage Controllers Apply Real-Time Decision-Making

Real-time automation is a standout feature, and its role is to replace the limitations of rule-based responses, or the time lags of manual interventions, with continuous systems management reacting as aspects change, not after the fact.

The ETB Controller from Energy Toolbase can, for example:

  • Manage ongoing data feeds from multiple sources, keeping pace with up-to-date intelligence on markets, tariffs, loads, and energy generation
  • Recalculate the optimal dispatch levels as often and as quickly as necessary.
  • Adjust battery behaviors dynamically and immediately
  • Respond to grid events as they occur, and often before a human operator will have had time to digest the latest updates

 

This supports a host of functions, from prioritizing critical loads to protecting businesses against spikes in prices, which is something we recognize is vital for higher-risk sectors where energy system resilience is fundamental. 

Integrating Automated Energy Storage Controllers for Future-Proofed Infrastructure

Longevity is a major decision-making factor for any organization choosing a modern energy storage controller. They need the assurance of a future-proof solution that won’t become redundant or outdated due to the rapidly changing complexity of markets and regulations.

An EMS controller is designed to optimize costs and energy use now while remaining highly adaptable to address tomorrow’s challenges. Automation is the secret to that adaptability, ensuring that, as markets fragment or organizations scale, their energy storage controller can move alongside them, offering enterprise-ready, future-proof functionality.

Learn More About the ETB Controller and Intelligent Automation

Further information about our ETB Controller with Acumen AI™, how it delivers returns on investment from both solar and energy storage assets, and the AI-powered automation built into the software. Either schedule a call with the Energy Toolbase team to chat about your requirements and priorities, or download the full product brochure for more detailed specifications.