Grid energy storage technology standards

How much energy is stored on the grid?

28,000 MW of storage capacity—on a net summer capacity basis—installed on the U.S. electricity grid.34 Pumped hydroelectric storage accounted for over 80 percent of this capacity, and lithium-ion batteries accounted for nearly 17 percent. Other technologies represent approximately 1 percent of total grid energy storage capacity.

Are energy storage codes & standards needed?

Discussions with industry professionals indicate a significant need for standards …” [1, p. 30]. Under this strategic driver, a portion of DOE-funded energy storage research and development (R&D) is directed to actively work with industry to fill energy storage Codes & Standards (C&S) gaps.

Which energy storage technologies are used on the grid?

Several storage technologies are in use on the U.S. grid, including pumped hydroelectric storage, batteries, compressed air, and flywheels (see figure). Pumped hydroelectric and compressed air energy storage can be used to store excess energy for applications requiring 10 or more hours of storage.

How can energy storage standards be adopted more quickly?

As storage technologies mature, codes and standards could be adopted more quickly through proactive engagement between utilities, storage facility owners or operators, and standard-setting organizations. Education and workforce training programs could help people operate energy storage systems more safely.

Are different energy storage technology systems suitable for different sizes and durations?

Different energy storage technology systems may be suitable for different system sizes and durations, but the reported system cost information represents the approach for which all system variables were kept as similar as possible.

How can energy storage technology improve grid reliability?

For more information, contact Brian Bothwell at (202) 512-6888, Technologies to store energy at the utility-scale could help improve grid reliability, reduce costs, and promote the increased adoption of variable renewable energy sources such as solar and wind. Energy storage technology use has increased along with solar and wind energy.