Why do we need energy storage?

Low-cost renewable electricity is spreading and there is a growing urgency to boost power system resilience and enhance digitalization. This requires stockpiling renewable energy on a massive scale, notably in developing countries, which makes energy storage fundamental.

What is the future of energy storage?

Storage enables electricity systems to remain in balance despite variations in wind and solar availability, allowing for cost-effective deep decarbonization while maintaining reliability. The Future of Energy Storage report is an essential analysis of this key component in decarbonizing our energy infrastructure and combating climate change.

Should energy storage systems be mainstreamed in the developing world?

Making energy storage systems mainstream in the developing world will be a game changer. Deploying battery energy storage systems will provide more comprehensive access to electricity while enabling much greater use of renewable energy, ultimately helping the world meet its Net Zero decarbonization targets.

Why is electricity storage important?

Electricity storage (top) augments generation for grid reliability and accelerates penetration of renewables, which have inherently intermittent and variable power outputs as illustrated by the large hourly fluctuations in US wind power generation during December 2020 (bottom).

Do energy storage systems need an enabling environment?

In addition to new storage technologies, energy storage systems need an enabling environment that facilitates their financing and implementation, which requires broad support from many stakeholders.

Can a power plant be converted to energy storage?

The report advocates for federal requirements for demonstration projects that share information with other U.S. entities. The report says many existing power plants that are being shut down can be converted to useful energy storage facilities by replacing their fossil fuel boilers with thermal storage and new steam generators.