The next hot concept after energy storage

What is the future of energy storage?

The future of energy storage is essential for decarbonizing our energy infrastructure and combating climate change. It enables electricity systems to remain in balance despite variations in wind and solar availability, allowing for cost-effective deep decarbonization while maintaining reliability.

How does energy storage work?

Energy storage creates a buffer in the power system that can absorb any excess energy in periods when renewables produce more than is required. This stored energy is then sent back to the grid when supply is limited.

Why do we need a co-optimized energy storage system?

The need to co-optimize storage with other elements of the electricity system, coupled with uncertain climate change impacts on demand and supply, necessitates advances in analytical tools to reliably and efficiently plan, operate, and regulate power systems of the future.

What technologies will be used in the future of energy storage?

These will be particularly important for storage requirements that go beyond the current four hour duration. Some of the most matured technologies include sodium-ion, flow batteries, liquid CO2 storage, and a combination of lithium-ion and clean hydrogen.

Are batteries the future of energy storage?

Developments in batteries and other energy storage technology have accelerated to a seemingly head-spinning pace recently — even for the scientists, investors, and business leaders at the forefront of the industry. After all, just two decades ago, batteries were widely believed to be destined for use only in small objects like laptops and watches.

What can energy storage be a substitute for?

Energy storage is a potential substitute for, or complement to, almost every aspect of a power system, including generation, transmission, and demand flexibility. Storage should be co-optimized with clean generation, transmission systems, and strategies to reward consumers for making their electricity use more flexible.