Building the case for investment into innovation in energy storage technologies.

能量存储器中ge: the case for investment

Grid-scale energy storage is one of the key technology areas that can help to unlock a low carbon electricity system. To support the case for investment into its innovation, we were asked to provide insight into how it could be deployed in the UK through a project that was collaboratively funded by three major utilities – E.ON, SSE and Scottish Power – as well as the UK government’s Department of Energy and Climate Change and the Scottish Government.

Our analysis is the most comprehensive review to date of the benefits of storage at a system-level, carried out over 12 months working alongside experts from Imperial College London.

A strategic approach

Despite the technology readiness and the significant societal benefits of energy storage, an incompatible market structure has reduced the commercial viability of storage for investors by increasing risk and reducing revenue potential.

Our report calls for a clear and comprehensive strategic approach to energy storage and other forms of flexibility in the electricity system.

Recommendations include: the creation of a multi-stakeholder taskforce; the establishment of an inter-governmental working group; and joint industry projects. We are currently looking at ways to work with our partners to take these recommendations forwards.