What is electrical energy storage (EES)?

Electrical Energy Storage, EES, is one of the key technologies in the areas covered by the IEC. EES techniques have shown unique capabilities in coping with some critical characteristics of electricity, for example hourly variations in demand and price.

Should energy storage be included in the electric grid?

Integrating storage in the electric grid, especially in areas with high energy demand, will allow clean energy to be available when and where it is most needed. As New York continues to invest and build a cleaner grid, energy storage will allow us to use existing resources more efficiently and phase out the dirtiest power plants.

Are energy storage systems viable and economically reasonable?

However, such storage systems become vi-able and economically reasonable only if the grids have to carry and distribute large amounts of vol-atile electricity from REs. The fi rst demonstration and pilot plants are currently under construction (e.g. in Europe).

Which EES technologies can be used in a large-capacity battery system?

Several mature EES technologies, in particular FES, DLC and battery systems, can be used in these ranges. PHS is the only currently feasible large-capacity EES for medium discharge times; further development in CAES is expected. Suitable locations for large PHS and CAES systems are topographically limited.

What technologies are needed to save energy?

Storage and use of hydrogen, and generation and use of synthetic natural gas for storing electricity, are relatively new technologies; improvements particularly in reliability and cost are needed.

Should electrical energy storage be a public policy goal?

The IEC is convinced that electrical energy storage will be indispensable to reaching these public policy goals. It is therefore essential that deployment of storage should receive long-term and robust support from policy-makers and regulators.