Worldwide grid-scale battery electricity storage system capacity was 55.7GW in 2023
Energy storage provides the flexibility to supply energy when needed, using various forms such as chemical, kinetic, thermal, and gravitational potential. The choice of storage depends on location and reserve service, as different technologies offer varying capacities and durations. Traditional fuel storage has long been common, but integrating intermittent renewable sources necessitates energy storage for a resilient, low-carbon network. Strategically placed storage can prevent costly network upgrades and enhance grid security through interconnection. Applications range from small-scale systems in homes to utility-scale storage. Examples include lithium-ion batteries, pumped hydroelectric storage, and ice storage tanks. Surplus renewable electricity can produce hydrogen for long-term storage, and electric vehicles can also serve as storage systems. As energy storage becomes crucial for a sustainable future, evaluating technologies for cost, efficiency, material sustainability, and safety is essential.
Learn more about storage by reading our Energy Insights.
Read our New Energy World articles on how energy storage fits into strategies for carbon reduction.
Learn about recent public funding for research and development of energy storage on our policy milestone calendar.
$0billion
plus was invested in battery energy storage in 2022 (IEA)
0Mt
of hydrogen was used globally in 2022 (IEA)
0TWh
of utility scale energy storage capacity is forecast to be in place by 2050 (DNV)
0GW
of pumped hydropower storage capacity is estimated to be in place by 2030 (International Hydropower Association)
What's new?
New electricity law sets framework to support clean energy development in Vietnam
15/1/2025
A pivotal focus of Vietnam’s new Energy Law is the prioritisation of renewable energy sources, like solar, wind and nuclear power, as well as green hy...
Now launched, China’s streamlined energy law facilitates energy transition in the world’s largest economy
15/1/2025
The new Energy Law comprises nine sections that cover a wide array of topics including energy planning, development and utilisation, the energy market...
First Teesside CCS contracts reached financial close in December
8/1/2025
One project is Net Zero Teesside Power (NZT Power), which aims to be the world’s first gas-fired power station with CCS. The other is Northern Enduran...
Industry praises UK government plans for electricity system change proposals
8/1/2025
The Clean Power Action Plan aims to ‘clean up a dysfunctional grid system’ by prioritising the most important projects and ending the ‘first-come-firs...
World’s first industrial-scale carbon capture plant at a cement facility moves into commissioning phase
11/12/2024
The plant’s carbon capture system, compression system, heat integration system, intermediate storage and loadout facilities are now complete and ready...
Events and training
Mon Ami integrated assessment framework for inspection and monitoring for corrosion surveillance
28/1/2025
Mon Ami – integrated assessment framework for inspection and monitoring for corrosion surveillance
Hazardous Area Classification - April 2025
8/4/2025 - 10/4/2025
This 3-day training course will provide delegates with training on the Energy Institute Model Safe Code of Practice 15, Area Classification for Instal...
Hazardous Area Classification - November 2025
4/11/2025 - 6/11/2025
This 3-day training course will provide delegates with training on the Energy Institute Model Safe Code of Practice 15, Area Classification for Instal...
Technical guidance publications
IP 467: Determination of the high temperature stability of middle distillate fuel
January 2025
EI 3312
Guidance on hydrogen delivery systems for refuelling of motor vehicles, co-located with petrol filling stations (Supplement to the Blue Book)
January 2025
This publication provides guidance for companies that provide hydrogen for the refuelling of motor vehicles and for authorities responsible for granti...
PELG Petrol filling stations - Guidance on managing the risks of fire and explosion (The Red Guide) executive summary
January 2025
IP 463: Determination of the presence of phenalenes and phenalenones in middle distillate fuels which affect potential instability - Rapid method by portable spectrophotometer
January 2025
EI 1542 Identification markings for dedicated aviation fuel manufacturing and distribution facilities, airport storage and mobile fuelling equipment
December 2024
An effective aviation fuel handling equipment marking system for product identification can help to promote safe and efficient manufacturing and marke...