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 maintain a stable and reliable power supply. This is because VRE sources like solar and wind are intermittent, and storage helps bridge the gap between periods of low generation or high demand.

Why is energy storage important?

Energy storage is a key component in making renewable energy sources, like wind and solar, financially and logistically viable at the scales needed to decarbonize our power grid and combat climate change.

Why is energy storage more expensive than alternative technologies?

High capital cost and low energy density make the unit cost of energy stored ($/kWh) more expensive than alternatives technologies. Long duration energy storage traditionally favors technologies with low self-discharge that cost less per unit of energy stored.

What makes renewable energy sources viable?

As the report details, energy storage is a key component in making renewable energy sources, like wind and solar, financially and logistically viable. It helps in decarbonizing our power grid and combating climate change.

What is the future of energy storage?

According to 'The Future of Energy Storage' report by the MIT Energy Initiative (MITEI), government investment in sophisticated analytical tools is urged to plan, operate, and regulate electricity systems efficiently, enabling the deployment and use of storage.

Will long duration energy storaget be a commercial liftoff?

As outlined in the March 2023 DOE report Pathways to Commercial Liftoff: Long Duration Energy Storaget, market recognition of LDES’s full value, through increased compensation or other means, will enable commercial viability and market “liftoff” for many technologies even before fully achieving the Storage Shot target.