Battery Energy Storage

Securing a clean energy transition

Energy storage is key in the transition to renewable energy. Renewable energy sources rely on the weather to produce energy, and this can vary depending on the time of day, season and wind and sun conditions. This means that sometimes there may be too much energy for the grid, or too little energy to satisfy demand. Energy storage reserves power during peak production times and releases it when production is low and demand is high.

Large-scale battery energy storage is important for a flexible and reliable energy system and supports rapid deployment of renewable energy. Batteries use relatively uncomplicated and proven scalable technology compared with other energy storage systems. They can be built together with renewable energy hubs or act alone to store energy from the grid.

Battery energy storage technology can unlock growth in areas with network constraints, and support on-demand energy needs as we transition to renewable energy. Batteries help to reduce blackouts and keep power prices low by reducing energy inconsistencies.

How does it work? 

Battery storage systems use chemicals to store and release energy on demand. Lithium-ion is the most common battery chemistry used to store electricity. 

Large-scale batteries are rechargeable. When there is surplus energy in the grid, batteries will recharge through energy produced by other sources such as wind and solar power. When there is insufficient energy in the grid, batteries will release electricity to supply the grid.