Social analysis of energy storage materials

What is a research agenda for the social acceptance of energy storage?

A research agenda for the social acceptance of energy storage is proposed that sets out key research questions relating international, national and local levels. The outcome of such studies would not only lead to enhanced understanding of processes of social acceptance, but deliver important insights for policy and practice. 1. Introduction

What are the environmental impacts of energy storage technologies?

Environmental impacts will depend on the scale and the sub-type of each technology, but some of the common impacts included: Social research is generally sparse for energy storage technologies, but perceptions tend to be more favourable when a technology is associated with ‘green’ energy, or when it is seen to provide local jobs.

What is energy storage?

Energy storage is one of a number of measures proposed to deliver system flexibility, and is an area of rapidly developing technological and economic activity ( McKinsey, 2015 ). Storage solutions, like many energy technologies, can be deployed at a range of scales, involving many forms of ‘hardware’ and ‘software’ (cf. Walker and Cass 2007 ).

Why do we need social assessment in energy research?

Sustainable use of resources and energy system services can reduce risks and contribute towards securing equity and justice for future generations. Several studies call for more social assessment in energy research and addressing issues pertaining to, e.g., justice 30, ethics 31, fairness 32, and history 33.

How do we assess the social impact of energy transition?

We call for critical evaluation of existing frameworks, methodologies, criteria, and indicators to assess the social impact of energy transition through all stages of the supply chain and analyze the current and future embedding and interlinking of material-energy activities.

Are energy storage technologies safe?

Social research is generally sparse for energy storage technologies, but perceptions tend to be more favourable when a technology is associated with ‘green’ energy, or when it is seen to provide local jobs. Some technologies are associated with perceived safety concerns.