Energy storage refers to technologies that capture one form of energy (usually electrical) when generated and store it as another (chemical, thermal, mechanical or electrochemical) for release when required [1]. Storage is essential for enabling the use of variable renewable energy (vRE) such as solar and wind due to its intermittent nature.
Pumped hydro currently makes up the largest installed capacity of energy storage globally with 153 GW [2] but other examples include batteries, molten salt (used with concentrated solar power), and hydrogen fuel cells, among others. Different energy and power capacities of storage can be used to manage different tasks. For example, short-term storage can enable the smooth functioning of the grid over minutes or hours, in situations where vRE producing is low, while longer-term storage can provide supply over days/weeks/months to account for seasonal variations in energy supply and demand. Storage supports system flexibility, efficiency, resilience and power quality by ensuring demand and supply is seamlessly in sync.
Local governments can enable storage for distributed vRE by establishing regulations to ensure quality storage facilities, devise investment plans, set up financing mechanisms and create awareness for all stakeholders. This can serve to expand energy access or act as a backup to unreliable electricity.
By downloading this Solution, you agree to receive occasional updates about the Solutions Gateway or related carbonn Center offerings. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Download
English
Solution 
