Supporting energy storage path

Can energy storage support the path to net zero?

To realize what the power sector can do to support energy storage’s key role in aiding the path to net zero, we need to understand the current situation in the U.S. Western region. The California ISO, the only independent western U.S. grid operator, handles more than a third of the West’s load, including 80% of California and parts of Nevada.

How can we improve energy storage?

Particularly, it is necessary to ramp up efforts to support demand response and virtual power plants, establish reasonable peak–valley price difference, and encourage users to be the main market participants in energy storage transaction.

Why is energy storage important?

As the report details, energy storage is a key component in making renewable energy sources, like wind and solar, financially and logistically viable at the scales needed to decarbonize our power grid and combat climate change.

What is the strategic position of mainstream energy storage technologies?

The strategic position of mainstream energy storage technologies should be made clear. Energy storage is one of the key measures for achieving carbon neutrality. It is recommended that the state issue an energy storage plan and technology blueprint, as well as strengthen the reform of power policies and market mechanisms for energy storage.

Does energy storage provide flexibility to the grid?

In collaboration with the University of California, Berkeley’s Renewable & Appropriate Energy Laboratory’s (RAEL), we conducted a study to understand how the transition is unfolding in the Western U.S. region and, more specifically, the role of energy storage in providing flexibility to the grid.

Will energy storage be a key enabler?

The shape the transition will take has yet to be determined. Energy storage has been tapped as one critical enabler, given its ability to level the variability of electricity production, which in turn can increase grid reliability and stability.