Energy 101: Storage

This presentation provides an overview of the storage technology landscape, with emphasis on battery energy storage systems (BESS). Key characterization parameters - including energy density, power density, round-trip efficiency, and discharge duration - determine which technologies are best suited for particular use cases. Lithium-ion batteries have emerged as the dominant technology for both grid-scale and behind-the-meter applications, driven by significant improvements in performance and rapidly declining costs. Storage provides services and value at the transmission, distribution, and individual facility level, as well as for off-grid and transportation applications. Proper system sizing for behind the meter applications is driven the desired power capacity, facility electricity consumption, and the desired duration of autonomy.