New Delhi: Five battery energy storage systems (BESS) will be installed at substations in Dwarka, Bindapur, Hari Nagar, Sagarpur and Pappankala-2 to strengthen Delhi’s power infrastructure. The 97.5 MW project is expected to benefit around 2.6 lakh consumers by improving grid reliability, easing peak-load stress and supporting renewable energy integration.BESS works like a giant rechargeable power bank, storing electricity when demand is low or surplus renewable power is available and releasing it during peak consumption periods. This helps reduce costly power purchases, stabilise the grid and improve supply quality.The city’s power regulator, Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) has granted in-principle approval to BSES Rajdhani Power Limited (BRPL) to start the process for the deployment of a cumulative 97.5 MW/195 MWh battery storage capacity across five locations in south and west Delhi. The largest installation, with a capacity of 40 MW/80 MWh, is planned at Pappankala-2, followed by a 30 MW/60 MWh system at Sagarpur.Officials said the project is aimed at addressing rising electricity demand and facilitating greater use of renewable energy. According to BRPL’s submissions before DERC, the identified locations have recorded annual peak demand growth of around 8% over the past three years.Battery storage systems can function both as a load and a source of power. They absorb electricity during periods of lower demand and discharge it when demand surges, helping utilities manage fluctuations in supply and consumption.According to BRPL, the project could generate annual benefits of about Rs 88.3 crore through energy arbitrage, participation in ancillary services markets, improved reliability and deferred network investments. Since the project will be implemented through a developer-owned model, BRPL will not incur any capital expenditure. The utility has stated that savings arising from lower power procurement costs and peak-load management will ultimately be passed on to consumers.The capital already has battery storage facility at Kilokari substation in south Delhi. Approved by DERC in 2024, the project stores electricity during off-peak hours and discharges it during periods of high demand. The system, based on lithium iron phosphate battery technology, was conceived as India’s first commercially approved utility-scale standalone BESS and is capable of supporting renewable energy integration, peak-load management and grid stabilisation.