ENERGY STORAGE & GRID NETWORK THE KEY TO UNLEASHING THE POTENTIAL OF DECENTRALISED ENERGY


Many forms of renewable electricity generation are variable or intermittent in their output. This is predictable to a degree. For example tidal energy is 100% predictable, whilst solar PV can only generate in daylight hours. Wind over the course of a year generally generates more in winter, which correlates with demand in a macro manner, but not on a day to day, hour to hour basis.


Therefore, as the share of variable power generation grows, especially if it is complemented by nuclear power which is inherently inflexible, the system must cope with increasing


amounts of “wrong time” electricity. Electricity storage is an answer. It is not the only answer - more interconnection with other networks and demand side management also help. Nevertheless it is extremely important. Chancellor George Osborne has said the UK must take a global lead in energy storage. Many countries across the world are recognising the value of storage by introducing supportive policies, mandates or direct action to increase the number of storage projects and activities.


There are many and varied ways of storing energy; some technologies are mechanical, using flywheels, compressed air


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