Analysis of electrical energy storage technologies for future electric grids

An expected transition in the UK energy sector implies that future volatile renewable energy sources will be developed to a greater extent. This creates new challenges for the electricity system to provide a balance between fluctuating generation and varying consumption. The present paper analyses various types of electricity storage available to meet a future energy scenario. Possible applications of energy storage are presented and discussed in context of energy policies and operational concepts as well as costs of electricity and installation investment. It has been shown that in the medium term the contribution of storage systems ensuring flexibility and provision of ancillary services appears particularly relevant.