Implementation and Project Management Strategy of Black Start Function in Utility‑Scale Energy Storage Systems

Abstract

As renewable penetration deepens, power system inertia and black‑start capability decline, raising concerns about grid resilience. Utility‑scale battery energy storage systems (BESS)with grid‑forming (GFM)inverters offer a promising solution. This paper examines the technical principles, implementation bottlenecks, and project management strategies for deploying black‑start functionality in large BESS. Two critical challenges are identified: (i) dispatch coordination and restoration path planning and (ii) grid‑connection compatibility and seamless mode switching. Drawing on recent demonstration projects, including Mongolia’s 80 MW/200 MWh BESS (2025), China’s Dalian 200 MW/800 MWh station (2023–2024 black‑start trials), and the Qinghai multi‑GFM collaborative test (2026), this paper proposes a dual management framework: (1) a joint‑drill and protocol‑solidification mechanism for dispatch coordination, and (2) a three‑level interface management system with clear delivery standards to resolve integration bottlenecks. The findings offer actionable guidelines for project managers, system integrators, and grid operators worldwide.