Abstract: High penetration of renewable energy resources in the power system results in various new challenges for power system operators. One of the promising solutions to sustain the quality and reliability of the power system is the integration of energy storage systems (ESSs).
The UK Government has announced a plan to improve the grid connection process to help reach its goal of producing all electricity from clean sources by 2030. In an open letter released today, the government and Ofgem outlined the need to connect new clean energy projects and energy storage systems more quickly.
Especially, a detailed review of battery ESSs (BESSs) is provided as they are attracting much attention owing, in part, to the ongoing electrification of transportation. Then, the services that grid-connected ESSs provide to the grid are discussed. Grid connection of the BESSs requires power electronic converters.
This article investigates the current and emerging trends and technologies for grid-connected ESSs. Different technologies of ESSs categorized as mechanical, electrical, electrochemical, chemical, and thermal are briefly explained.
Ofgem reported 732 GW of projects in the grid connection queue in November 2024, across all technology types. This means the queue has almost twice the installed capacity required in Great Britain by 2050, based on the Future Energy Scenarios (FES) 2024 Holistic Transition Pathway.
In simple terms, it can allow the capture of generated energy when it is supplemental to needs, so that it can be stored and released at times when it is needed, for example, at times of peak demand. It provides the ability to instantaneously balance power supply and demand.