How do you explain storage tech to stakeholders?

1 Battery storage

Battery storage is one of the most common and versatile forms of energy storage. It can store electricity from solar panels, wind turbines, or the grid, and release it when needed. Battery storage can provide backup power, frequency regulation, peak shaving, and grid integration for renewable energy sources. However, battery storage also has some drawbacks, such as high cost, limited lifespan, environmental impact, and safety risks. To explain battery storage to stakeholders, you should focus on how it can improve the reliability and efficiency of renewable energy systems, and address any concerns they may have about the cost-benefit analysis and the disposal and recycling of batteries.

2 Pumped hydro storage

Pumped hydro storage is the oldest and largest form of energy storage. It uses excess electricity to pump water from a lower reservoir to a higher one, and then releases it through turbines to generate electricity when needed. Pumped hydro storage can store large amounts of energy for long periods of time, and can respond quickly to changes in demand. However, pumped hydro storage also has some limitations, such as high capital cost, geographical constraints, environmental impact, and water availability. To explain pumped hydro storage to stakeholders, you should emphasize how it can provide long-term stability and flexibility for renewable energy systems, and address any issues they may have about the feasibility and sustainability of building and operating pumped hydro plants.

3 Thermal storage

Thermal storage is a form of energy storage that uses heat or cold to store energy. It can use different materials and methods, such as molten salt, ice, water, or phase change materials. Thermal storage can store energy from solar thermal, geothermal, or waste heat sources, and release it for heating, cooling, or electricity generation. Thermal storage can reduce the need for fossil fuels, increase the efficiency of renewable energy systems, and provide thermal comfort and services. However, thermal storage also has some challenges, such as low energy density, heat loss, technical complexity, and integration issues. To explain thermal storage to stakeholders, you should highlight how it can enhance the value and performance of renewable energy systems, and address any questions they may have about the design and operation of thermal storage systems.

4 Hydrogen storage

Hydrogen storage is a form of energy storage that uses hydrogen as an energy carrier. It can use electricity from renewable sources to split water into hydrogen and oxygen, and then store the hydrogen in tanks, pipelines, or underground caverns. Hydrogen can then be used as a fuel for transportation, industry, or power generation. Hydrogen storage can enable large-scale and long-term storage of renewable energy, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. However, hydrogen storage also has some barriers, such as high cost, low efficiency, safety hazards, and infrastructure requirements. To explain hydrogen storage to stakeholders, you should illustrate how it can create a clean and flexible energy system, and address any challenges they may have about the scalability and viability of hydrogen storage technologies.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?