Traditionally, grid energy storage systems (ESS) have been one-off solutions, utilizing proprietary software and hardware components. As such, each installation requires time consuming, custom integration. Often times proprietary vendor hardware or software protocols require “hacks” to get all components to play nice. Ultimately this approach results in higher costs, decreased reliability, and limited scalability and upgrade options.
This is where the SunSpec and MESA Alliances come in. The Sunspec Alliance has standardized a host of functions, including information models, data formats, protocols, and system interfaces, in order to allow “plug & play” system interoperability within solar PV power plants. MESA, which stands for Modular Energy Storage Architecture, has collaborated with SunSpec to create open, non-proprietary communication specifications specifically for energy storage systems.
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