When power demands get more complex, the answer isn’t more technology—it’s smarter integration. In this episode of Power Onward, Kim talks with Lucio Kroll and Aaron Gold about how BESS, generator sets, renewables, controls, and the grid can work together to create more flexible, reliable power systems. From testing integrated systems at Cummins’ Power Integration Center to cutting diesel use, reducing outage risk, and supporting data center and AI loads, Lucio and Aaron explore how integrated power strategies can improve reliability, lower costs, and meet growing energy demands. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why BESS works best alongside generators, renewables, and the gridHow BESS can cut fuel use, smooth peaks, and reduce outage riskWhy data centers and AI are driving demand for faster, more flexible power Additional Resources: Cummins MicrogridsCummins BESS webpage Why battery storage is now essential to microgrid developmentCummins Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) commissioned in DubaiKey tips to help understand battery energy storage systemsPower Onward podcast: Beyond your average household batteryWhat are battery energy storage systems?How BESS is driving grid stability, supporting renewables, and accelerating the Middle East region’s clean energy goalsIn-Depth exploration of Cummins Microgrid testing lab, the Power Integration Center (PIC) Interested in learning more? Subscribe to the [3-minute Power Up] to get breakthrough stories and the latest innovations in power technology delivered straight to your inbox: https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe Dive into the conversation: (00:00) This is Power Onward (00:13) Designing power systems for a changing energy landscape (00:58) 3 things to know about BESS today (02:27) Why integration matters more than choosing a single technology (03:38) Solving reliability, sustainability, and cost challenges together (06:38) How the Power Integration Center proves complex systems will work (10:43) Turning energy independence into a competitive advantage (13:51) How BESS creates business value beyond backup power (17:36) Pairing BESS with generators and solar for greater efficiency (19:51) Cutting diesel consumption by 67% with a small BESS (20:53) Why integration and flexibility will define the future of power (22:48) Data centers, AI loads, and the need for millisecond response (24:43) Start with the customer problem, not the technology
