Energy Storage Project Basics

What are energy storage systems?

Energy storage systems allow energy consumption to be separated in time from the production of energy, whether it be electrical or thermal energy. The storing of electricity typically occurs in chemical (e.g., lead acid batteries or lithium-ion batteries, to name just two of the best known) or mechanical means (e.g., pumped hydro storage).

What are the components of energy storage systems?

System components consist of batteries, power conversion system, transformer, switchgear, and monitoring and control. A proper economic analysis identifies the costs associated with each of these components. Source: EPRI. Understanding the components of energy storage systems is a critical first step to understanding energy storage economics.

What are energy storage solutions for electricity generation?

Energy storage solutions for electricity generation include pumped-hydro storage, batteries, flywheels, compressed-air energy storage, hydrogen storage and thermal energy storage components. The ability to store energy can facilitate the integration of clean energy and renewable energy into power grids and real-world, everyday use.

What should be included in an economic analysis of energy storage systems?

An economic analysis of energy storage systems should clearly articulate what major components are included in the scope of cost. The schematic below shows the major components of an energy storage system. System components consist of batteries, power conversion system, transformer, switchgear, and monitoring and control.