Battery Energy Storage Comes of Age: The BESS Revolution with Swetha Sundaram

S1E3 episode overview

In this episode of Watt Matters, Ana speaks with Swetha Sundaram, VP of Solar and Hybrid BESS Systems at RWE Clean Energy and co-author of The BESS Book, about one of the fastest-evolving pieces of the clean energy puzzle: battery energy storage systems (BESS).

Once seen as an optional add-on to solar, BESS is now recognized as a core component of grid reliability and energy flexibility. Drawing from her experience across utilities, consultancies, and large-scale development, Swetha explains what’s driving this rapid evolution — from safety and standardization to software and AI — and how developers can navigate the unique challenges of deploying storage at scale.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• ​Why BESS is now essential for grid stability and renewable integration.
• ​How technology and chemical innovations are improving cost and safety.
• ​The critical role of community engagement and permitting strategy.
• ​How to manage degradation, performance, and revenue optimization.
• ​What AI and predictive analytics mean for the next generation of storage.
• ​The opportunities in standalone and hybrid storage projects.
• ​What long-duration and emerging chemical systems could unlock next.

Chapters

• ​00:00 – Introduction and guest background
• ​03:00 – Why BESS matters for the clean energy transition
• ​06:00 – Writing The BESS Book and its intended audience
• ​09:00 – What is BESS and how it works
• ​12:00 – How technology, chemistry, and safety have evolved
• ​15:00 – Permitting challenges and lessons learned
• ​18:00 – The unique development and operational aspects of BESS
• ​24:00 – Market dynamics, tariffs, and project economics
• ​29:00 – The rise of standalone storage and data center integration
• ​33:00 – The role of AI in optimizing storage performance
• ​39:00 – Long-duration storage and emerging technologies
• ​43:00 – Hard-earned lessons and key takeaways for developers
• ​47:00 – The future of storage and closing thoughts

Meet Our Guest

Swetha Sundaram is VP of Solar & Hybrid BESS Systems at RWE Clean Energy, leading design and technology strategies for large-scale solar and storage across North America. With over 10 years of experience in utilities, consulting, and development, she offers a rare, full lifecycle perspective to renewable integration. Swetha is also the co-author of The BESS Book, a leading reference on storage design and execution, and continues to shape the industry's approach to reliable, scalable storage.

Meet the Host

Ana Conde is a seasoned product marketing leader with over 15 years in renewable energy. Known for her strategic mindset and passion for innovation, Ana brings clarity, curiosity, and deep industry knowledge to every conversation. As host of Watt Matters, she explores the ideas, people, and breakthroughs moving solar forward.

About the Watt Matters podcast

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