This class provides an energy storage technology overview, develops the concepts of power output compared to energy content, examines the utility tariff conditions and tax incentives that determine financial viability of a BESS. We look at several practical use cases and the factors influencing the return on investment of those examples. After this class, students will be able to make a high-level assessment of project financial viability based on the utility tariff and tax incentives. Finally, there is a brief explanation of the various battery technologies and the performance tradeoffs between different battery chemistries.

Speaker: Mike Hainzl

Is the Northeast Power Solutions Manager for Generac.   Prior to joining Generac in 2015, Mike Hainzl spent 23 years in the wireless telecom industry holding positions in Radio Frequency and Facilities Engineering, Field Operations, and Business Continuity Management. This includes hands-on experience managing fixed and mobile generator fleets for national telecom providers, as well as coordinating emergency power restoration after major storm events like Hurricanes Katrina, Irene, and Sandy. Hainzl specializes in risk analysis and mitigation planning with a focus on operational readiness that begins with system design and continues with a robust preventative maintenance policy. 

Hainzl earned his BSEE, MS in Engineering Management, and MS in Emergency Management & Business Continuity from New Jersey Institute of Technology. He is also a Certified Business Continuity Professional (CBCP) and has been a volunteer firefighter for over 30 years.