Reasons for the shortcomings of flow battery energy storage

Are flow batteries the future of energy storage?

To address the challenge of intermittency, these energy sources require effective storage solutions, positioning flow batteries as a prime option for long-duration energy storage. As aging grid infrastructures become more prevalent, flow batteries are increasingly recognized for their role in grid stabilization and peak load management.

Why do we need flow batteries?

As aging grid infrastructures become more prevalent, flow batteries are increasingly recognized for their role in grid stabilization and peak load management. They provide a reliable power supply while helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Flow batteries offer easy scalability to match specific energy storage needs.

Are flow batteries a low-cost long-term energy storage technology?

In an August 2024 report “Achieving the Promise of Low-Cost Long Duration Energy Storage,” the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) found flow batteries to have the lowest levelized cost of storage (LCOS) of any technology that isn’t geologically constrained. DOE estimates that flow batteries can come to an LCOS of $0.055/kWh.

Are flow batteries sustainable?

Innovative research is also driving the development of new chemistries, such as organic and zinc-based flow batteries, which could further enhance their efficiency, sustainability, and affordability. Flow batteries represent a versatile and sustainable solution for large-scale energy storage challenges.

Are flow batteries a viable alternative to lithium-ion?

Flow batteries are emerging as a lucrative option that can overcome many of lithium-ion’s shortcomings and address unmet needs in the critical mid- to long-duration energy storage (LDES) space. With most energy transition technologies, cost is still king.

Are flow batteries paying off?

That work seems to be paying off. In an August 2024 report “Achieving the Promise of Low-Cost Long Duration Energy Storage,” the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) found flow batteries to have the lowest levelized cost of storage (LCOS) of any technology that isn’t geologically constrained.