Energy Storage
ENERGY STORAGE - PROVIDING ENERGY ON DEMAND
Energy storage is becoming an integral part of our electrical infrastructure. The ability to store energy and release it when needed is vital to delivering a secure, reliable, modern electricity system that supports existing businesses and economic development. Harvesting solar energy and storing it also helps reduce or avoid price spikes and supply shortfalls.
Many of the Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) operating across the country today use lithium-ion (Li-ion) technology. Li-ion batteries are already commonly used in a wide range of consumer devices such as laptop computers, cellphones, toys, and handheld power tools, as well as in electric vehicles. BESS has the potential to make a meaningful contribution to a low-carbon electrical grid.
ENERGY STORAGE DELIVERS A MORE RELIABLE - AND SUSTAINABLE - GRID
In a secure and reliable electricity system, grid operators depend not just on electricity, but also on power plants that offer critical services such as frequency regulation and voltage support. The role of energy storage is indispensable in this scenario, with its ability to release power on demand. By strategically incorporating storage systems in key locations, the grid's strength is reinforced, bolstering its resilience. This proactive approach significantly reduces the risk of blackouts and enhances overall reliability.
Want to learn more about energy storage? Check out our Sources page for more resources!
MAXIMIZING THE SUPPLY OF CLEAN, AFFORDABLE, RENEWABLE ENERGY WITH BESS
Without a way to store power, electricity has to be used the instant it’s created. Our country’s electrical grids are carefully managed by grid operators that constantly ensure the supply of electricity precisely meets demand. Under normal circumstances, this is accomplished by the grid operator telling individual power plants to increase or decrease their production of electricity, sometimes on a minute-by-minute basis. BESS offers grid operators on-demand power that can respond quickly when needed. In addition, BESS makes it possible to save extra solar power generated during the day and release it when demand increases in the evening hours, which helps reduce supply shortfalls.