Europe vigorously develops energy storage

How much energy storage will Europe have in 2022?

Many European energy-storage markets are growing strongly, with 2.8 GW (3.3 GWh) of utility-scale energy storage newly deployed in 2022, giving an estimated total of more than 9 GWh. Looking forward, the International Energy Agency (IEA) expects global installed storage capacity to expand by 56% in the next 5 years to reach over 270 GW by 2026.

Why is energy storage important in the EU?

It can also facilitate the electrification of different economic sectors, notably buildings and transport. The main energy storage method in the EU is by far 'pumped hydro' storage, but battery storage projects are rising. A variety of new technologies to store energy are also rapidly developing and becoming increasingly market-competitive.

What does the European Commission say about energy storage?

The Commission adopted in March 2023 a list of recommendations to ensure greater deployment of energy storage, accompanied by a staff working document, providing an outlook of the EU’s current regulatory, market, and financing framework for storage and identifies barriers, opportunities and best practices for its development and deployment.

Why should EU countries consider the 'consumer-producer' role of energy storage?

It addresses the most important issues contributing to the broader deployment of energy storage. EU countries should consider the double 'consumer-producer' role of storage by applying the EU electricity regulatory framework and by removing barriers, including avoiding double taxation and facilitating smooth permitting procedures.

Is Europe loosing the grip of Russia over its energy sector?

Quite the opposite, Europe ended winter with a remarkable milestone for its energy sector: EU gas storages were almost 60% full, a record amount. This didn't grab the headlines, but it matters. Because it shows that Europe has finally loosened the grip that Russia had over its energy sector.

Does the European Court of Auditors support energy storage?

having regard to the briefing paper of the European Court of Auditors of 1 April 2019 entitled ‘Review No 04/2019: EU support for energy storage’, – having regard to its resolution of 15 January 2020 on the European Green Deal, – having regard to its resolution of 28 November 2019 on the climate and environment emergency,