Why we need energy storage?

With spiraling fossil fuel prices worldwide, a growing focus on reducing carbon emissions, and more accessible renewable energy solutions on offer than ever before, energy storage is becoming increasingly important.

What is energy storage?

“Energy storage” is essentially holding energy for later use.

So what are energy storage systems? While most people probably think of chemical batteries when they hear the term, there are many different forms of energy storage, such as gravitational, mechanical, and heat-based systems.

Energy storage also exists on many scales, ranging from the tiny batteries used to power microelectronics all the way up to grid energy storage systems that can help us manage electricity supplies for entire countries.

In today’s world where electricity is a fundamental part of life, energy storage is more important than ever. Many current and future types of technology, such as some types of renewable energy, mobile devices, and electric vehicles, require batteries in order to function, so energy storage technologies are a huge focus of scientific research.

Types of energy storage systems

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Energy storage systems come in all shapes and sizes. Some energy storage types have been in use for a long time, while others are very new developments. Additionally, some are naturally occurring, while others are man-made. The main methods of energy storage include:

• Batteries (particularly lithium-ion batteries)

• Pumped hydroelectric storage

• Other methods, including mechanical, thermal, biological, and chemical

Of these, lithium-ion batteries and pumped hydroelectric storage make up the majority of energy storage globally.

Why do we need energy storage?

Energy storage systems are a fundamental part of modern life, and most aspects of our lives would not exist without them.

Reliable grid energy

Various forms of energy storage are used to support major grids. This is crucial to ensure reliable electricity supply in the case of unexpectedly increased demand and/or decreased supply.

Powering devices

A huge number of electronic devices are now powered by lithium-ion batteries, from mobile phones to laptops, tools, and many other consumer electronics.

Powering vehicles

Electric vehicles are rapidly growing in popularity, and they rely on large lithium-ion batteries in the place of internal combustion engines.

Supporting renewable energy sources

Renewables are cost-effective and clean, and are set to replace fossil fuels as energy sources in the coming decades. However, renewables like wind and solar generate electricity intermittently. They need to be combined with an energy storage system to be viable on a large scale. This means that, when the wind or the sun is strongest, ‘extra’ energy can be saved and stored, then used at times when the wind or sun is weaker, guaranteeing consistent and reliable access to energy.

Facilitating energy independence

Energy storage can help people achieve energy independence. This is ideal for remote communities with unreliable grid access or anyone looking to reduce their reliance on the grid.

Learn more about our next-generation energy storage solutions.