ABB launches battery storage ‘as a service’ to eliminate upfront costs

ABB has launched a Battery Energy Storage Systems-as-a-Service (BESS-as-a-Service) model that lets commercial and industrial customers deploy on-site batteries with no upfront capital outlay, paying instead through a predictable quarterly fee.

The scheme bundles all hardware, software, installation and long-term support into one contract, with ABB assuming responsibility for maintenance, optimisation and participation in wholesale energy markets. Performance guarantees cover everything from availability to energy-trading brokerage costs.

Demand for storage is rising sharply: the International Energy Agency expects global capacity to grow six-fold by 2030, with commercial and industrial systems alone forecast to reach 560 GWh – nearly ten times today’s level. ABB says its service model removes the investment hurdle that has stalled many projects and will help data centres, logistics hubs and large commercial buildings to cut peak charges, bolster resilience and generate new revenue streams.

Stuart Thompson, Division President at ABB’s Electrification Service Division, commented, “In today’s volatile energy market, businesses need reliability and cost predictability above all else. Customers tell us that while they want to deploy the latest technologies to improve energy security and reduce their emissions and costs, they face financial obstacles. 

“By shifting from capital expenditure to a more predictable operational expenditure approach, ABB’s BESS-as-a-Service enables businesses to immediately strengthen their energy security, slash peak demand charges, and generate new revenue streams. We see BESS-as-a-Service as not just a new offering but a strategic lever for the division’s growth and innovation. We see significant potential to scale this globally, especially as more industries seek flexible, low-risk pathways to decarbonisation.”

Before installation ABB carries out a feasibility assessment to confirm the project will deliver an immediate net financial gain. The solution is technology-agnostic, allowing future battery upgrades without locking operators into a single chemistry or supplier, and is backed by a network of partners specialising in energy-monitoring software, data analytics and financial modelling.

“With BESS-as-a-Service, we are redefining the economics of clean energy adoption – delivering the flexibility and financial returns businesses need to decarbonize with confidence. It allows businesses to adopt advanced energy solutions without the financial strain of large capital investment and empowers them to take control of their energy needs, strengthen their resilience and unlock new value from their assets,” Thompson said.