Battery Storage: Battery technology is the most prevalent and rapidly advancing form of energy storage today. Lithium-ion batteries, for example, are widely used in electric vehicles and residential solar installations. They offer rapid response times, high energy density, and long cycle life. Other battery technologies such as flow batteries, sodium-sulfur, and lead-acid also have niche applications.
Pumped Hydroelectric Storage: Pumped hydro storage systems store energy by pumping water to an elevated reservoir during low-demand periods and releasing it to generate electricity during peak demand. This technology boasts high energy conversion efficiency and long lifespan but is limited by geographic constraints.
Thermal Energy Storage: Thermal energy storage involves capturing excess thermal energy and storing it for later use. This technology stores heat or cold, depending on the application, using materials like molten salt or phase-change materials. It finds applications in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, as well as solar thermal power plants.
Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES): CAES systems store excess energy by compressing air and storing it in underground caverns or large containers. During high-demand periods, the pressurized air is released to power turbines and produce electricity. CAES offers high storage capacity and can be adapted to include renewable energy inputs.
