ABSTRACT
Abstract The use of batteries combined with photovoltaic (PV) systems connected to the grid allows the storage of surplus energy from photovoltaic generation for later use. This combination can reduce dependence on the grid, since, for most consumers, peak consumption does not occur simultaneously with peak generation from the PV system. This article describes the initial operation of a PV system with 10.72kWp connected to grid and associated to a storage system with 57.6kWh lead-acid batteries installed at the Federal University of Technology - Paraná, in Curitiba city, Campus Neoville. We present an analysis of the benefits obtained from the combined use of the PV system connected to the grid with energy storage, reducing the total energy consumed from the grid. A brief analysis of the demand showed that, for this UTFPR campus, the peak power consumption occurred between 10:00 and 12:00 AM, which was also the interval of peak photovoltaic generation. We have observed that a scheduled battery discharge of 5.5% of the storage capacity from May to November and 9% discharge in December has resulted in R$ 1,154.44 of saving in the first seven months of operation.