Energy storage needed by conventional power plants too - Navigant

Energy storage is no longer seen just as the solution to one main challenge presented by renewables like wind and solar -- the intermittency of power generation -- but it can also be used to lift revenues and lower the costs to operate conventional power plants.

In a new report Navigant Research describes how projects combining energy storage with fossil fuel (ESFF) power generation are shifting the paradigm of how energy storage is utilised.

“[..] an energy storage system integrated with a conventional power plant can result in significant fuel savings while improving the grid’s overall resiliency,” says senior research analyst Alex Eller.

Navigant Research further says utilities should explore ESFF as part of comprehensive non-wire alternatives to meet peak capacity needs without building new infrastructure and generation. Developers can work with customers to identify potential for such projects and understand how to use existing plants to lower costs for new storage development. The research company also notes that it is important for stakeholders to recognise the potential for ESFF to provide a pathway for energy storage to fully displace fossil fuel generation and serve as the primary source of peak generation capacity.

Choose your newsletter by Renewables Now. Join for free!