How do energy storage systems work?

Energy-storage systems, also known as batteries or thermal stores, allow you to capture heat or electricity when it is available (for example, from a solar PV system during daylight, from a wind turbine when it’s windy, or from a log boiler when burning batches of logs), and then save it until a time when it can be useful to you.

How do you store energy?

You can store electricity in electrical batteries, or convert it into heat and stored in a heat battery. You can also store heat in thermal storage, such as a hot water cylinder. Energy storage can be useful if you already generate your own renewable energy, as it lets you use more of your low carbon energy.

What are examples of thermal energy storage systems?

Liquids – such as water – or solid material - such as sand or rocks - can store thermal energy. Chemical reactions or changes in materials can also be used to store and release thermal energy. Water tanks in buildings are simple examples of thermal energy storage systems.

What is thermal energy storage?

Thermal energy storage is used particularly in buildings and industrial processes. It involves storing excess energy – typically surplus energy from renewable sources, or waste heat – to be used later for heating, cooling or power generation. Liquids – such as water – or solid material - such as sand or rocks - can store thermal energy.

What is domestic battery storage?

Domestic battery storage refers to the use of an energy storage system in your home. It involves the installation of a home battery, designed to store energy to power your property cheaply and cleanly. You’ll no doubt have lots of questions before investing in a home battery.

Why do you need an electricity storage system?

Many renewable energy sources, particularly solar and wind may generate electricity at a time when it’s not needed or the electricity may not be available when you want to use it. With an electricity storage system, you can store electricity as it is generated and then use it later.