Birleşim Enerji seeks regulatory approval for storage addition at Yozgat wind farm

Birleşim Enerji has submitted a formal application to EPDK, the energy regulatory authority in Türkiye, to install a battery energy storage facility at its existing wind power plant located in Yozgat Sorgun. The proposal details the addition of a 20 MWh battery energy storage system alongside an expansion of the generation facility to reach a total mechanical capacity of 40 MWm.

This application highlights a growing trend across regional energy markets where power producers seek to co-locate storage assets with variable renewable generation. By pairing battery systems directly with wind power, operators can absorb excess generation during low-demand periods or high-wind hours and release power when network demand peaks. For grid networks, this hybrid model smooths out supply volatility and assists in maintaining system frequency and voltage stability.

Integrating a 20 MWh storage system alongside an expansion to 40 MWm mechanical capacity introduces distinct engineering challenges at the plant step-up substation. Storage systems impose rapid, bi-directional energy flows on transformer assets, cycling frequently between charge and discharge modes. This operational profile subjects step-up transformers and switchgear to higher thermal stress and increased mechanical forces on windings compared to traditional unidirectional generation assets.

Engineering teams must review step-up transformer specifications, busbar arrangements, and protection schemes when integrating storage facilities. Fast-acting inverter systems demand rapid protection response times, while tap changers on step-up transformers must adapt to frequent voltage shifts caused by variable battery dispatch. Furthermore, harmonic distortion from power conversion equipment requires dynamic filtering to maintain power quality at the point of common coupling.

What this means for asset owners in Türkiye: Asset owners and grid engineers in Türkiye operating renewable sites must evaluate the thermal and electrical impacts of adding battery storage to existing step-up substations. Co-locating storage assets alters transformer loading cycles and accelerates insulation aging. High power ramp rates require careful assessment of switchgear duty cycles and protection relay coordination to prevent nuisance tripping and expensive transformer outages.