How are the benefits of energy storage distributed in europe

What is distributed energy storage?

Distributed energy storage refers to small-scale energy storage systems located at the end user site that increase self-consumption of variable renewable energy such as solar and wind energy. These systems can be centrally coordinated to offer different services to the grid, such as operational flexibility and peak shaving.

Why is energy storage important?

Energy storage is a crucial technology to provide the necessary flexibility, stability, and reliability for the energy system of the future. System flexibility is particularly needed in the EU’s electricity system, where the share of renewable energy is estimated to reach around 69% by 2030 and 80% by 2050.

How can the EU save energy?

With adequate growth in electricity storage, demand side flexibility and cross-border interconnectivity to help take advantage of abundant home-grown clean power, the EU could reduce fossil dependance, avoid costly energy imports, and protect consumers and businesses from volatile international energy prices.

What are the benefits of battery energy storage in Europe?

Increasing the use of renewables in the energy mix allows energy imports to be reduced, with clear benefits for Europe’s energy independence and security. The decarbonisation of the energy mix and reductions in overall CO2 emissions are other clear, positive outcomes of an increased use of Battery Energy Storage in Europe.

How can a flexible energy system help the future of Europe?

In addition to flexible generation, additional sources of flexibility can help the integration of large shares of intermittent renewables in the future European power system. Expanding and upgrading grids can reduce congestion and increase the possibility of transferring electricity to places where it is needed.

How much energy storage capacity does the EU need?

These studies point to more than 200 GW and 600 GW of energy storage capacity by 2030 and 2050 respectively (from roughly 60 GW in 2022, mainly in the form of pumped hydro storage). The EU needs a strong, sustainable, and resilient industrial value chain for energy-storage technologies.