India electricity storage

What is India's energy storage capacity?

As of March 2024, India has reached a significant milestone with its cumulative installed energy storage capacity at 219.1 MWh, or approximately 111.7 MW. This achievement underscores India’s strong commitment to advancing energy storage technologies and enhancing its energy infrastructure.

How big is India's battery energy storage system?

According to Mercom India Research’s report, India’s total Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) capacity reached 219.1 MWh as of March 2024.

Why is energy storage important in India?

The technical system characteristics of the Indian power system are favorable for energy storage to reduce operating cost and improve system reliability. Storage can provide energy arbitrage, ancillary services, and potentially defer transmission investments, but existing policy and regulatory barriers may limit these opportunities.

When did India start adding energy storage capacity?

India began adding energy storage capacity in 2013 with small pilot projects. By March 2024, the country’s cumulative installed energy storage capacity reached 219.1 MWh (~111.7 MW), with 120 MWh (40 MW) added in the first quarter of 2024 alone.

What will India's energy storage requirements be in 2026-27?

They are now a key part of energy plans, especially those using solar and wind energy. According to the National Electricity Plan (NEP) 2023, unveiled by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), India’s storage requirement from BESS will rise to 34.72 GWh in 2026-27.

How can Indian policymakers broaden the role of energy storage?

If Indian policymakers want to broaden the role of energy storage in the power system, an important first step is to include energy storage in national energy policies and programs.