Role of Batteries in Reducing Renewable Energy Curtailment
Batteries play a crucial role in reducing renewable energy curtailment by storing excess energy generated by solar and wind power, enabling its use during peak demand or when renewable energy production is lower. This helps to minimize the waste of clean energy due to grid congestion or oversupply.
How Batteries Address Curtailment
- Energy Storage: Batteries can absorb surplus renewable energy that would otherwise be curtailed due to grid constraints. This stored energy can then be released when needed, ensuring that more renewable energy is utilized.
- Load Shifting and Arbitrage: By storing energy during periods of low demand (e.g., during the day for solar power), batteries can provide power during peak hours, helping to balance supply and demand on the grid.
- Infrastructure Support: While batteries can significantly reduce curtailment, they also highlight the need for improved grid infrastructure. Even with extensive battery deployment, some curtailment may persist due to transmission limitations.
Examples and Benefits
- California: In California, increased battery storage has helped reduce curtailment, though it continues to grow. By 2025, battery storage could help CAISO avoid significant amounts of renewable energy curtailment daily.
- UK and Global Markets: The UK is experiencing a surge in battery storage investment, which could potentially power millions of homes. Similar investments worldwide can mitigate curtailment costs and promote more efficient use of renewable energy.
In summary, batteries are a key solution for minimizing renewable energy curtailment by providing a buffer for excess energy production and supporting grid stability. Their increasing deployment is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of renewable energy sources.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-role-do-batteries-play-in-reducing-renewable-energy-curtailment/
