What is energy storage?

Energy storage is the capturing and holding of energy in reserve for later use. Energy storage solutions for electricity generation include pumped-hydro storage, batteries, flywheels, compressed-air energy storage, hydrogen storage and thermal energy storage components.

Why is energy storage important?

For example, electricity storage is critical for the operation of electric vehicles, while thermal energy storage can help organizations reduce their carbon footprints. Large-scale energy storage systems also help utilities meet electricity demand during periods when renewable energy resources are not producing energy.

What is a battery energy storage system?

While consumers often think of batteries as small cylinders that power their devices, large-scale battery storage installations known as battery energy storage systems (BESS) can rival some pumped hydro storage facilities in power capacity.

How can energy be stored?

Energy can also be stored by making fuels such as hydrogen, which can be burned when energy is most needed. Pumped hydroelectricity, the most common form of large-scale energy storage, uses excess energy to pump water uphill, then releases the water later to turn a turbine and make electricity.

How does energy storage work?

The so-called battery “charges” when power is used to pump water from a lower reservoir to a higher reservoir. The energy storage system “discharges” power when water, pulled by gravity, is released back to the lower-elevation reservoir and passes through a turbine along the way.

What is thermal energy storage?

Thermal energy storage (TES) can be found at solar-thermal electric power plants that use concentrating solar power (CSP) systems. Such systems use concentrated sunlight to heat fluid, such as water or molten salt. While steam from the fluid can be used to produce electricity immediately, the fluid can also be stored in tanks for later use.