Stationary storage refers to large-scale systems that store electricity generated at one time for use at another time. These systems play a key role in balancing power supply and demand by storing excess energy generated during off-peak hours or by renewable energy sources like solar and wind for use during peak hours or when renewable energy generation is low. Some common stationary storage technologies include lithium-ion batteries, lead-acid batteries, pumped hydro storage, compressed air energy storage, and flywheels.
Lithium-Ion Battery Storage
Lithium-ion battery Stationary Energy Storage has seen significant cost reductions in recent years, driven by widespread adoption in consumer electronics and electric vehicles. As a result, lithium-ion is increasingly becoming the technology of choice for stationary energy storage applications like replacing gas "peaker plants," integrating more renewable energy sources, and improving grid reliability. Major advantages of lithium-ion batteries include high energy density, little maintenance requirement, fast response time, and multiple daily charging and discharging cycles. Several utility-scale lithium-ion battery projects have come online globally in the last few years. However, further cost reductions are still needed to compete with established alternatives like natural gas.
Pumped Hydro Storage
Pumped hydro storage involves using surplus grid power to pump water from a lower basin to a higher basin, and then letting the water flow back to generate hydropower during periods of peak demand. With over 95% of global energy storage capacity, pumped hydro remains the most commercially proven and largest-scale energy storage technology currently available. While new closed-loop pumped hydro projects require specific geographical needs, existing facilities are being repowered with adjustable speed pumped storage units for improved grid services. However, environmental and land use impacts remain challenges for significant expansion of this technology.
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