Seoul energy storage power sales factory is in operation

Is South Korea a powerhouse in the energy storage system industry?

South Korea has set an ambitious goal to rise alongside the United States and China as one of the top three powerhouses in the global energy storage system (ESS) industry by 2036. The nation plans to capture 35% of the rapidly growing global ESS market, aiming to revitalize its currently stagnant domestic ESS industry.

How much power does South Korea need in 2022?

In terms of power capacity, it’s expected to grow from 91.5 GWh to over 1,432 GWh, an increase of more than 15 times. The market size is also forecasted to grow from US$15.2 billion in 2022 to US$39.5 billion by 2030. South Korea recognizes the growing need for ESS.

What is an energy storage system (ESS)?

An ESS, or Energy Storage System, is a facility that stores excess electricity using large quantities of secondary batteries to use it later. As countries around the world push for carbon neutrality around 2050, there’s an increasing demand for renewable sources like solar and wind energy, as well as carbon-free energy (CFE) like nuclear power.

Why is SolarEdge building a 2gwh battery plant?

SolarEdge said the plant is a response to growing demand for battery energy storage and will have a 2GWh annual production capacity when it fully ramps during the second half of this year. The factory is named Sella 2, after SolarEdge’s late founder and former CEO Guy Sella.

Does South Korea need ESS?

South Korea recognizes the growing need for ESS. According to the 10th Basic Plan for Power Supply and Demand confirmed earlier this year, the percentage of rigid power sources, which are difficult to adjust in terms of output, will increase from 34% in 2021 to 54.0% in 2030 and 65.2% by 2036.