Deploying a battery energy storage system (BESS) follows a structured process, from financial modeling and site selection to interconnection planning, procurement, installation, commissioning, and ongoing operations. While many energy companies have experience managing generation assets and grid interactions, operating large-scale batteries introduces distinct challenges.

For teams accustomed to traditional generation or direct grid reliance, BESS operation requires a different approach. Safety remains the top priority, while operators must also manage system reliability, performance, and costs.

This pv magazine Webinar will examine the challenges and insights gained from operating a 40.6 MWh co-located BESS with a 20 MW solar PV system. The project, owned by InterEnergy, is the largest BESS in the Central American and Caribbean region. While InterEnergy has extensive experience with motor generators, integrating battery storage with solar required adjustments in operations and management strategies.

Laura Perez Amigo, operations manager at InterEnergy, will discuss how the team navigated operational unknowns, optimized battery dispatch, and analyzed performance trends. Laura will also outline how Twaice’s analytics platform supported performance monitoring, degradation analysis, and cost management.

Additional perspectives will come from Ryan Franks, senior solution engineer at Twaice, who will provide insights into performance analytics, and Vijandren Naidoo of Brookfield Renewable, part-owner of InterEnergy, who will discuss the role of storage in broader energy portfolios.

Attendees will gain a practical understanding of the shift from conventional generation to BESS, key operational challenges, and how data-driven insights support efficiency, reliability, and cost management in energy storage

pv magazine Webinar content

• Real-world insights – Industry experts will present challenges and lessons learned in operating a BESS commissioning in 2024.
• Operational best practices – Understand how to optimize BESS performance, integrate it with PV systems, and navigate operational hurdles.
• Data-driven decision-making – How analytics software like Twaice enhances battery performance, reduces costs, and improves reliability.
• Future-proofing strategies – Gain insights into emerging BESS trends, cost reductions, and government mandates shaping the industry.
• Live Q&A

Questions can be submitted beforehand in the comments window when registering or in the chat during the webinar. Tristan Rayner, editor at pv magazine, will be the moderator of this webinar.

Speakers

Ryan Franks | Senior Solution Engineer, TWAICE

Ryan Franks is a Senior Technical Solution Engineer at TWAICE, bridging sales, product, and technology to deliver optimal solutions. His career spans battery testing, certification, and techno-economic analysis, plus developing codes and standards. He has worked at PNNL, ESRG, CSA Group, and NEMA. Ryan holds a BS in Engineering Mechanics from the University of Illinois and an MBA from John Carroll University. A Senior IEEE Member, he also holds two patents.

Laura Perez Amigo | Operations Manager, InterEnergy

Laura Perez Amigo experienced technical lead with 8+ years in renewable energy, specializing in solar PV, battery storage, and asset management. Skilled in problem-solving, communication, and leadership, supporting engineering teams in multicultural settings. Contributed to 500MW+ of solar and storage projects across multiple countries, providing strategic oversight and technical support to cross-functional teams. Passionate about driving clean energy solutions and maximizing asset performance.

Vijandren Naidoo | Director Energy Storage and Grid Integration, Brookfield Renewable

Vijandren is Director Energy Storage and Grid Technologies, with 15 years of experience in developing, designing, constructing, and operating solar and wind farms worldwide. An electrical engineer by training, he spends 50% of his time supporting the Brookfield Renewable businesses in developing and operating Battery Energy Storage Systems with focus of technology selection, BESS design and procurement, including a key focus on safety and operational performance. The other 50% is spent on performing Technical Due Diligence for M&A transactions focusing on energy storage.

Moderators

Tristan Rayner | Editor, pv magazine