Course content

Everything on learnBESS. One purchase, full access.

The Utility-Scale BESS Course

From development to commercial operation — technology, commerce, delivery, compliance, and bankability.

8 modules · ~3 hours · Module 1 free

Specialist Guides

Deep dives into specific standards, regulations, and commercial practices.

2 guides · growing library

The Utility-Scale BESS Course

Work through the modules in order or jump to what you need. Module 1 and the Glossary are free.

Module 1Free

BESS 101 — What is a Battery Energy Storage System?

What is BESS and how does it work? A clear introduction to utility-scale battery energy storage — what it is, why it exists, how it generates revenue, and where the industry is heading.

10 min
Module 2Full access

BESS Technology Stack — DC Blocks, PCS, Transformers & Power Plant Controllers

The equipment and technology of a utility-scale BESS plant. DC blocks, PCS, AC blocks, MV infrastructure, HV substations, and the control stack explained.

25 min
Module 3Full access

BESS Value Chain — Who Does What in Energy Storage Projects

The key stakeholders in a utility-scale BESS project — developers, EPCs, manufacturers, asset owners, service providers, RTM providers, lenders, and insurers.

25 min
Module 4Full access

How BESS Makes Money — Revenue Streams & Market Mechanics

How utility-scale BESS generates revenue from FCR, FFR, aFRR, energy arbitrage, and capacity markets. Revenue stacking, market evolution, and net revenue factors.

20 min
Module 5Full access

BESS Project Lifecycle — Development, Construction & Commercial Operation

BESS project lifecycle — how utility-scale battery projects move from origination through financing, construction, commissioning, and commercial operation.

35 min
Module 6Full access

BESS Fire Safety & Grid Compliance — UL 9540A & Grid Codes

Fire safety and grid compliance for utility-scale BESS — thermal runaway, UL 9540A, NFPA 855, grid codes, fault ride-through, and plant classification.

35 min
Module 7Full access

BESS Project Bankability — Lenders, Tier Lists, Guarantees & Insurance

How lenders, manufacturers, EPCs, BNEF Tier lists, guarantees, and insurance together decide whether a BESS project gets built.

30 min
Module 8Full access

BESS End of Life & Recycling

How the EU Battery Regulation applies to utility-scale BESS — end-of-life triggers, producer responsibility, recycling targets, and the battery passport.

25 min

Specialist Guides

Deep dives into specific topics — standards, regulations, and commercial practices.

GuideFull access

NIS2 for BESS — Cybersecurity Compliance in Energy Storage

NIS2 cybersecurity compliance for BESS — scope, Article 21 obligations, incident reporting, supply chain, IEC 62443, and national implementations.

30 min  ·  Coming soon
GuideFull access

UL 9540A for BESS — Cell, Module, Unit, and Installation-Level Fire Testing

UL 9540A explained for BESS — thermal runaway propagation testing at cell, module, unit, and installation level, and how it shapes fire safety design.

30 min  ·  Coming soon