Energy storage targets significantly enhance the effectiveness of clean energy policies by providing clear frameworks for grid modernization and renewable integration. Here’s how they shape state-level efforts:
Accelerating Renewable Energy Adoption
Storage targets ensure surplus renewable energy (e.g., solar midday peaks) is stored for use during high-demand periods or low-generation hours, reducing reliance on fossil fuel “peaker” plants. For example, California’s AB 1144 prioritizes storage in wildfire-prone areas, directly supporting grid resilience during extreme weather.
Strengthening Grid Stability and Policy Compliance
Procurement goals, like Maryland’s 3 GW by 2033 mandate, provide investor certainty, driving market growth. The U.S. installed 8.8 GW of utility-scale storage by 2023, with projections of 63 GW by 2027, underscoring how targets spur technological deployment at scale.
Equity and Community Benefits
Policies like Oregon’s HB 2618 incentivize solar-plus-storage for low-income households, reducing energy burdens while advancing equity. The Union of Concerned Scientists emphasizes that storage policies must prioritize replacing fossil fuel plants in underserved communities and lowering energy costs.
Multi-Policy Synergies
Targets work best when paired with renewable mandates and efficiency programs. Massachusetts’ 1,000 MWh target (2025) aligns with its broader 2018 Clean Energy Act, which also funds demonstration projects to validate storage use cases.
Market and Innovation Catalysts
Procurement targets, such as California’s exclusion of pumped hydro beyond 50 MW, steer investments toward specific technologies, fostering innovation in battery and long-duration storage. This creates a feedback loop where policy ambition drives cost reductions and scalability.
By setting storage targets, states lock in a critical enabling mechanism for achieving 100% clean energy goals while addressing equity, resilience, and economic growth.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-do-energy-storage-targets-impact-the-overall-clean-energy-policies-of-a-state/
