Why BESS? Starting the Conversation on Battery Storage in Building Design

Why should battery storage be considered in building design?

As buildings become increasingly electrified and energy systems more complex, battery energy storage systems (BESS) are emerging as a key technology for improving resilience, reducing energy costs, supporting decarbonisation, and enabling greater flexibility in how buildings interact with the grid.

This introductory CIBSE event brings together perspectives from a consultant, building services designer, and technology provider to explore the role of BESS in modern building projects. Rather than focusing on highly technical detail, the session will provide a practical overview of where battery storage can add value, the challenges it can help address, and the opportunities it presents for building owners, developers and design teams.

Through real-world examples and project experience, attendees will gain a better understanding of how battery storage is being considered, designed and implemented across the built environment.

SPEAKERS

Fatou Tambadou | Arcadis
Why Clients Are Looking at BESS

An overview of the key commercial and strategic drivers behind battery storage adoption, including energy cost optimisation, resilience, demand management, decarbonisation targets and future energy flexibility. Using a real client case study, this session will explore how BESS can deliver value beyond simply storing energy.

Laurence Johnson | Hoare Lea
What Does BESS Mean for Building Design?

A designer's perspective on integrating battery storage into building energy systems. This presentation will discuss key design considerations, interactions with renewable technologies, operational benefits, and the role BESS can play in creating efficient, future-ready buildings.

Alex Thompson | AceOn Group
How Is BESS Being Delivered in Practice?

A practical look at battery storage projects already being implemented. Through real-world case studies, this session will highlight lessons learned, client considerations, implementation challenges, and how BESS can help overcome growing grid connection constraints.

Key Questions We Will Explore

• Why is battery storage becoming increasingly relevant to building projects?
• What challenges can BESS help solve?
• How does BESS integrate with modern building energy systems?
• What are the commercial, operational and resilience benefits?
• What lessons can be learned from projects already delivered?
• How can BESS support electrification, renewable energy integration and future grid flexibility?

Whether you are a consultant, designer, contractor, building owner or simply interested in the future of energy in the built environment, this event will provide a practical introduction to the opportunities and challenges associated with battery energy storage systems.