Energy Storage Systems

Abstract

Energy storage is a vital component in the chain of production-distribution-consumption of energy, even more so if the energy comes from a source that is intermittent and/or is not controllable as is the case with for example solar energy and wind energy. For many people, the term energy storage is the storage of electricity in batteries, as it is the most commonly found way of storing energy. In addition to classic batteries, there are other energy storage alternatives from a primary source for later use. The most valuable forms of energy storage are the ones that can both take over and release the energy on demand, in the form of electricity, such that, in the end, the electrical energy is transformed into thermal or mechanical energy. In stationary applications, energy can be stored in various forms such as batteries, ultracapacitors, or tanks of hydrogen, water, and different types of materials. This chapter will evaluate each form of energy storage.