Energy storage takes off

Why is energy storage important?

Continued expansion of intermittent renewable energy, ESG-focused investments, the growing versatility of storage technologies to provide grid and customer services, and declining costs for key components like lithium-ion batteries all played a significant role in driving the investment and development of energy storage.

Will energy storage growth continue through 2025?

With developers continuing to add new capacity, including 9.2 GW of new lithium-ion battery storage capacity in 2024 through November 2024 and comparable levels of growth expected through the fourth quarter of 2024, energy storage investments and M&A activity are expected to continue this trajectory through 2025.

Why is energy storage important in a data center?

For instance, energy storage can alleviate some of the immense backup power needs for behind the meter data center configurations, thereby limiting the need for a data center operator to rely on the grid and increasing the operator’s ability to be a “flexible” load.

How much battery storage is needed to achieve energy transition goals?

In fact, at least 1200 GW of battery storage capacity will be needed if the world wants to achieve 2030 energy transition goals. While Pumped storage hydropower (PSH) is a traditional storage method that accounts for a majority of global storage still, it faces challenges which make alternative storage solutions a more attractive option.

Are batteries the future of energy storage?

Developments in batteries and other energy storage technology have accelerated to a seemingly head-spinning pace recently — even for the scientists, investors, and business leaders at the forefront of the industry. After all, just two decades ago, batteries were widely believed to be destined for use only in small objects like laptops and watches.

How are battery energy storage resources developed?

The most significant battery energy storage resource development has occurred in states that have adopted some form of incentive for development, including through utility procurements, the adoption of favorable regulations, or the engagement of demonstration projects.