More awareness and dependence on renewable energy sources (solar and wind) sheds light on the challenges of storing that energy. The need is rising because such solutions help to store surplus energy when generation is high and release it when there is no generation, like when the wind is not blowing, and the sun is not shining. This article is for those who are still confused about various renewable energy solutions, their types, and their significance.
Why Do We Need Renewable Energy Storage?
To deal with the inconsistency of renewable energy generation sources, we need energy storage solutions. Here are the benefits:
- Storing renewable energy sources like solar and wind increases the supply when demand is high, and sources are not available and saves surpluses from going to waste.
- Storing excess renewable energy makes it easier to integrate higher shares of renewables into the grid, which supports decarbonization goals.
- With storage, we use that energy consistently and eliminate dependence on fossil fuel backup during low renewable output.
- Another great benefit is utilities can avoid costly investments in new power plants, which lowers overall energy costs for consumers.
Types of Renewable Energy Storage Solutions
Now, there are various energy storage technologies with different strength levels and applications. Below are some of the most advanced and widely-used solutions:
Batteries
There are two most common types of batteries to store surplus natural energy:
Lithium-Ion Batteries: These batteries are highly versatile and can store home energy because they are efficient, scalable, and can store large amounts of energy. Lithium-ion batteries are ideal for both residential and utility-scale projects. Don’t forget the challenges of cost, raw material availability, and environmental concerns related to mining.
Flow Batteries: They are also efficient because they store energy in liquid electrolytes, which makes them highly scalable. Flow batteries have a longer lifespan and are better suited for large-scale storage. They are a bit heavier than other options and also more expensive in terms of initial setup.
Pumped Hydro Storage
Pumped hydro storage is the oldest form of large-scale energy storage. It works by pumping water uphill when energy demand is low and releasing it, turning turbines to generate electricity when demand becomes high.
This is an effective method to store renewable surplus, but there are some geographic challenges, such as access to water and elevation differences. Now in China and Europe, there are new mechanisms and installations taking place to handle the growing capacity of renewables.
Thermal Energy Storage
Thermal energy storage means making heating or cooling a mid-way to use the energy when demand is high. It captures surplus energy as heat, which can be used later for heating, cooling, or power generation.
Industries widely use solar thermal plants as a means of storing energy. They are simple systems, like water tanks, store thermal energy, and more advanced methods use molten salts or solid materials.
Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES)
CAES stores energy by compressing air and storing it in underground large tanks. When energy is needed, the compressed air is released, mixed with natural gas, and used to run turbines. Although CAES offers long-duration energy storage, it is inexpensive. Plus, it is eco-friendly because it relies on natural gas and large infrastructure.
Hydrogen Energy Storage
Hydrogen energy storage involves using excess renewable energy to produce hydrogen through electrolysis (splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen). The stored hydrogen is later converted back into electricity via fuel cells or combustion. This technique is at an early stage but is also suitable because hydrogen is used as a fuel for vehicles and industries.
Challenges and Future Outlook
The future of renewable energy storage looks promising and get your solutions today from renew-able.co.uk, but some challenges need to be addressed:
Cost
Many renewable energy storage technologies, especially advanced batteries are expensive but widespread adoption is difficult. However, as research continues, prices are expected to decline in the coming years.
Efficiency
Some storage methods, such as hydrogen energy storage and compressed air, have lower energy conversion efficiencies compared to others. Increasing the efficiency of these technologies is under consideration by researchers.
Scalability
Pumped hydro storage is highly efficient but is limited by geographical constraints which is also a major challenge. Finding scalable solutions to implement globally is essential for the wide adoption of renewable energy storage.
Conclusion
Renewable energy storage solutions are becoming essential to get clean energy without any dependence on fossil fuels. There are various technologies and methods to do so from small to large scale levels. Still, much research and innovation is required for the widespread adoption of such techniques.