Battery usage has come a long way since its invention in 1800.
Battery development steadily improved during the next fifty years, as more research was done worldwide using various chemicals and materials. However, it was not until 1859 that Gaston Planté invented the first lead-acid battery that could be recharged using reverse current. A new dimension that opened the door for multiple uses.
Initially, battery use was problematic because they leaked and had a short service life: cars wouldn’t start, and toys wouldn’t function, often leading to scepticism about battery-powered devices. Storage, durability, and life expectancy have all improved, thanks to new developments.
Homes with solar power are reducing electricity costs by utilizing modern battery storage systems and/or industrial battery storage.
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are ideal for a flexible, electrified energy system and are used for residential, commercial, and industrial (C&I) to utility-scale.
Some of the advantages include:
- The ability to discharge stored energy during peak energy consumption.
- Energy Arbitrage: refining added electricity tariff revenues by charging when prices are low and discharging when prices are high.
- Solar parks (PV) can store excess energy during increased generation and use it when generation decreases or as demand increases.
- Multiple supplies of battery energy will improve the reliability and stability of the grid.
- Availability in case of power outages.
There has been a major increase in battery storage in the European market during the last three years. By the end of 2024, more than 20 GWh had been installed in Europe, although a vast number were installed between 2021 and 2023 due to rising energy costs.
The battery market continues its upward trend as overproduction and cheaper material costs are driving prices downward.
Only through targeted policy measures and consistent implementation of recommendations can Europe unlock its full potential in battery storage and achieve its energy security and decarbonization goals.
