Energy storage is a trillion-dollar blue ocean

Why is energy storage important in a decarbonized energy system?

In deeply decarbonized energy systems utilizing high penetrations of variable renewable energy (VRE), energy storage is needed to keep the lights on and the electricity flowing when the sun isn’t shining and the wind isn’t blowing — when generation from these VRE resources is low or demand is high.

Are Li-ion batteries the future of energy storage?

Li-ion batteries are deployed in both the stationary and transportation markets. They are also the major source of power in consumer electronics. Most analysts expect Li-ion to capture the majority of energy storage growth in all markets over at least the next 10 years , , , , .

Why is energy storage important?

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.

How does energy storage work?

Energy storage can be used to lower peak consumption (the highest amount of power a customer draws from the grid), thus reducing the amount customers pay for demand charges. Our model calculates that in North America, the break-even point for most customers paying a demand charge is about $9 per kilowatt.

What are the different types of energy storage?

Major forms of energy storage include lithium-ion, lead-acid, and molten-salt batteries, as well as flow cells. There are four major benefits to energy storage. First, it can be used to smooth the flow of power, which can increase or decrease in unpredictable ways.

Is a giant battery storage project on the way in Florida?

After years of build up, a giant battery storage project is online in Moss Landing, California, and a huge one is on the way in Florida. A worker controls batteries in an electricity storage container on Sept. 29, 2020 in Fontenelle near Dijon in France. Credit: Philippe Desmazes/AFP via Getty Images