Diesel generator (DG) sets are widely used as alternative power backup sources during grid outages. In remote areas they also serve as a primary source of electricity for consumers. But in addition to being expensive, diesel usage significantly contributes to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and local air pollution. Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) paired with rooftop solar, can provide a credible alternative to DG sets for backup power. ValueSTAC (Value of Solar-plus-Storage: Techno-economic Analysis Calculator) is an open-source web tool designed to empowers users to analyse the techno-economic feasibility of existing solar-plus-storage systems or optimise it by minimising the total cost of ownership while accounting for Indian electricity market dynamics.

• Dual analysis options: Evaluate existing BESS systems or optimise battery size based on user inputs.
• Policy compliance: Designed with Indian electricity policies and regulations in mind.
• Multi-scenario evaluation: The analysis considers four electricity supply scenarios: (i) grid + diesel generator (DG), (ii) grid + solar PV, (iii) grid + DG + solar PV, and (iv) grid + solar PV + BESS.
• Customisable inputs: Add custom solar generation, demand profiles, electricity and feed-in tariffs for more accurate evaluation.
• Data export: Enables users to export data in PDF and excel formats for additional analysis and reporting.

Why choose ValueSTAC?    

Optimised battery size

Internal rate of return (IRR)*

Lifetime savings*

Payback period*

Lifetime avoided CO2 emissions*

Electricity source mix and solar energy utilisation

Net and gross electricity drawal from the grid

Levelised cost of electricity (LCOE) comparison*

*The metrics are determined by comparing the scenario electricity grid + diesel generator with electricity grid + solar PV + BESS.

Debanjan Bagui is a Research analyst at the Council on Energy Environment and Water (CEEW). Send your comments / queries to [email protected].