Solar energy production, particularly through photovoltaic (PV) panels, faces a significant challenge due to the intermittent nature of sunlight. The sun isn’t available continuously, except briefly at certain latitudes during specific seasons, so solar power alone can’t reliably meet electricity demand. PV systems can generate power in cloudy conditions, but output varies throughout the day and across seasons, making it difficult for utilities to depend solely on solar.
Large-scale energy storage has only recently gained prominence in the renewable energy sector. Unlike more visible technologies such as solar panels and wind turbines, storage systems like battery farms often operate quietly in the background. As a result, discussions around renewables tend to focus on generation, while the vital role of storage in balancing supply, supporting grid resilience and enabling consistent delivery is often overlooked.
Energy storage as a key element of the renewable energy transition
According to the DNV Energy Transition Outlook (ETO) 2024, battery storage, PV and solar are growing faster than expected. Battery costs continue to fall, with a 14% drop in 2024 alone, making around-the-clock solar and storage increasingly accessible.
Energy storage strengthens grid stability by maintaining supply regardless of weather or demand shifts. These advancements are critical to building more efficient, reliable renewable systems. Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and other hybrid models help reduce fossil fuel reliance, particularly during peak demand, supporting emission reductions and a transition to a low-carbon future.
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