Brooklyn Bagel Shop Uses Batteries to Save Money and Help the Environment

A bagel shop in Brooklyn, Black Seed Bagels, is using new battery systems to help pay less for electricity and be kinder to the planet. These batteries power their ovens and refrigerators, saving money and energy.
By Newsroom | Business, Energy |

A bagel shop in Brooklyn, Black Seed Bagels, is implementing a new method to manage its electricity costs and lessen its environmental impact by using plug-in battery systems. This initiative, a partnership with David Energy, involves using portable batteries to power energy-hungry appliances. The aim is to reduce reliance on the electrical grid during peak demand times, a period when electricity rates are typically highest.

This move by Black Seed Bagels highlights a growing trend where businesses are seeking innovative solutions to control operational expenses while also addressing environmental concerns. The success of such programs could influence other small and medium-sized businesses to explore similar energy management strategies.

Program Details and Business Impact

Black Seed Bagels has installed three batteries, each about the size of a carry-on suitcase. These units are dedicated to powering equipment such as commercial ovens and refrigerators, which are known for their high energy consumption.

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  • The batteries store energy, which is then used by the appliances during the morning hours.

  • This strategy helps Black Seed Bagels reduce its electricity usage from the municipal grid when prices are most expensive.

  • The result is a noticeable decrease in monthly utility bills.

  • The system also provides backup power, offering resilience against power outages.

Expansion and Industry Trend

The David Energy program, which includes Black Seed Bagels, has already been deployed in approximately 50 other locations.

  • These locations span various business types, including fast-food restaurants, spas, and dog grooming services.

  • Collectively, these sites now have a total energy storage capacity exceeding 500 kilowatt-hours.

  • James McGinniss, CEO of David Energy, sees these portable battery systems as a swift way to increase energy storage capabilities without needing to wait for extensive regulatory changes.

  • This approach aligns with a broader movement towards distributed energy storage, which offers advantages to both individual businesses and the overall electricity network.

Financial Model and Merchant Response

The financial arrangements of the David Energy program have been a point of discussion.

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  • David Energy is offering these battery systems to customers.

  • The exact financial returns for David Energy from this program were not disclosed by McGinniss.

  • Retail energy providers like David Energy manage their profitability by balancing their purchases in wholesale energy markets with their commitments to supply electricity to customers at competitive rates.

  • The offer of batteries is presented as a method for David Energy to attract and keep customers.

Broader Context and Potential Benefits

The implementation of battery storage systems by businesses like Black Seed Bagels is seen as a step towards more efficient energy use and a cleaner environment.

  • By reducing peak demand, these systems can help ease the strain on the electrical grid.

  • This can contribute to a more stable and reliable power supply.

  • The use of stored energy can also reduce the need for power plants that rely on fossil fuels, thereby lowering carbon emissions.

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The precise financial mechanics for David Energy remain somewhat opaque, but the operational benefits for Black Seed Bagels are evident.

Expert Analysis

James McGinniss, CEO of David Energy, stated that these portable systems allow for the rapid scaling of energy storage, bypassing lengthy waits for regulatory adjustments. He views them as a practical solution for businesses needing to manage energy-intensive operations effectively. The widespread adoption across different types of businesses suggests a demand for such flexible and cost-saving energy solutions.

The program's success is noted as a potential blueprint for other businesses aiming to optimize energy use and reduce operating expenses.

Conclusion

Black Seed Bagels is actively utilizing plug-in battery technology to lower its electricity expenses and decrease its carbon footprint. This initiative, in partnership with David Energy, demonstrates the practical application of distributed energy storage for small and medium-sized businesses. The program's expansion to numerous other businesses indicates its potential to reshape how companies manage energy consumption. The ability to store and deploy energy from batteries allows businesses to avoid high peak-demand charges and ensure a more consistent power supply, ultimately contributing to both their financial health and environmental goals.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is the bagel shop using batteries?
They are using batteries to save money on electricity bills and use less energy from the power grid.
Q: How do the batteries help the environment?
By using less power during busy times, they help make the electricity grid more stable and can reduce the need for power plants that cause pollution.
Q: Is this a new idea?
No, many other businesses like restaurants and spas are also using similar battery systems to manage their energy use.