How Does Energy Storage Work?

In today’s rapidly evolving energy landscape, the need for reliable and efficient energy storage has become increasingly important. Energy storage technologies are crucial in balancing the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources, managing peak demand, and enhancing grid stability. This blog aims to provide an overview of how does energy storage work and explores some of the key technologies involved.

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How Does It Work?

The functioning of energy storage differs from the traditional electricity grid model, where electricity production and consumption must occur simultaneously. In the absence of energy storage, when you use a hairdryer at home, an electricity generation plant adjusts its output slightly to maintain grid balance. However, energy storage systems can store and discharge electricity strategically at optimal times.

Presently, the most commonly employed energy storage technology is Lithium-ion batteries, the same kind found in cell phones and electric vehicles. Like cell phone batteries, battery energy storage systems at commercial, industrial, and utility scales can be charged with grid electricity, stored, and then discharged during periods of supply shortfall or when energy prices are highest.

Furthermore, battery energy storage is increasingly being integrated with solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, enabling the maximization of solar energy’s value to the grid by storing excess solar-generated electricity for use during cloudy periods or after sunset.

Key Applications for Energy Storage

Energy Arbitrage:

Energy arbitrage takes advantage of time-dependent electricity pricing by charging the energy storage system when electricity is cheaper and discharging it when prices are higher, optimizing cost savings.

Solar Firming:

Energy storage complements solar power by smoothing out gaps in supply caused by factors like cloud cover or time of day, ensuring consistent energy availability.

Non-Wires Alternative (NWA):

Strategically deployed energy storage systems intelligently increase grid capacity and resilience during critical periods, avoiding or deferring the need for building new infrastructure such as power lines.

Capacity:

Energy storage provides additional local and system capacity during times of high demand, enhancing the reliability and stability of the grid.

Ancillary Services:

Energy storage intelligence facilitates the provision of ancillary services to the electric grid, including Frequency Regulation and Operating Reserves, contributing to grid stability.