Are battery energy storage systems the future of electricity?

In the electricity sector, battery energy storage systems emerge as one of the key solutions to provide flexibility to a power system that sees sharply rising flexibility needs, driven by the fast-rising share of variable renewables in the electricity mix.

Are EVs the future of battery storage?

EVs accounted for over 90% of battery use in the energy sector, with annual volumes hitting a record of more than 750 GWh in 2023 – mostly for passenger cars. Battery storage capacity in the power sector is expanding rapidly.

How big is battery storage capacity in the power sector?

Battery storage capacity in the power sector is expanding rapidly. Over 40 gigawatt (GW) was added in 2023, double the previous year’s increase, split between utility-scale projects (65%) and behind-the-meter systems (35%).

How much does a battery energy storage system cost?

The average installed cost of battery energy storage systems designed to provide maximum power output over a 4-hour period is projected to decline further, from a global average of around USD 285/kWh in 2021 to USD 185/kWh in the STEPS and APS and USD 180/kWh in the NZE Scenario by 2030.

What is a behind the meter battery energy storage system?

Behind-the-meter battery energy storage systems are connected to the distribution grid behind the utility meter of an individual electricity consumer, typically a household or a small business. Behind-the-meter battery energy storage systems are usually paired with a distributed energy resource, in most cases rooftop solar PV.

Should energy storage systems be mainstreamed in the developing world?

Making energy storage systems mainstream in the developing world will be a game changer. Deploying battery energy storage systems will provide more comprehensive access to electricity while enabling much greater use of renewable energy, ultimately helping the world meet its Net Zero decarbonization targets.