Why are battery energy storage systems important?

Battery energy storage systems (BESSs) use batteries, for example lithium-ion batteries, to store electricity at times when supply is higher than demand. They can then later release electricity when it is needed. BESSs are therefore important for “the replacement of fossil fuels with renewable energy”.

How much energy can a battery store?

Using current types of batteries to provide 50GW of power would equate to stored energy in the range of 100–200GWh.91 Larger amounts energy storage could be achieved using alternative technologies such as flow batteries (which are discussed in chapter 3).

Will battery energy storage save a lot of carbon?

In 2023, battery energy storage systems in Great Britain saved 950,000 tonnes of carbon emissions. This year they are on track to increase this by 50%. This means batteries will have saved the equivalent emissions of a car driving from New York to Los Angeles 1.32 million times.

Are lithium ion batteries good for energy storage?

Lithium-ion batteries are suitable for short-term energy storage capacity (typically up to four hours). However, other energy storage systems will be needed for medium- and long-term storage capabilities. According to Hino, 'We’ve got an eye on pretty much everything that’s out there in terms of alternate technologies'.

Why is battery storage so important in Britain?

In Britain, battery storage has also fallen into that category. Britain’s desire for renewable energy to form the backbone of its electricity system by 2030 creates an obvious need for batteries. As such, a number of specialist investment trusts listed on the London market from 2018 onwards focus on lithium-ion battery projects.

Should batteries be stored in the UK?

For batteries, the opportunity comes from storing electricity when prices are cheap and later selling high. Battery storage developers also complain that Britain’s electricity system operator frequently “skips” batteries and calls on more expensive gas-fired power stations when there is insufficient renewable generation.