How are Energy Storage Facilities Revolutionising the Renewable Energy Market?

Instability of Renewable Energy Sources: A Challenge for the Polish Energy Market

In the last decade, Poland has built thousands of wind and solar power plants with a total capacity of over 24 GW. Unfortunately, renewable energy sources are characterized by high instability due to the seasonality of winds, sunlight mainly in summer and only during daylight hours, and periodic droughts causing a decrease in river water levels.

Gravitational Energy Storage: An Innovative Solution

A potential solution could be gravitational energy storage systems, which are set to revolutionize the renewable energy market. Gravitational energy storages work similarly to pumped-storage hydroelectric stations. Water is replaced by steel blocks that are lifted by reversible electric motors through a system of steel cables and pulleys. The main advantage of such storages is the constant, invariably high efficiency of the installation and the possibility of recycling at a level of over 99.9%.

Balancing Demand: The Role of Energy Storage

Energy storages are not just a way to balance the demand for electricity, but also a tool for stabilizing energy grids. During periods of overproduction, when demand is low, excess energy can be stored in these storages. When energy demand increases, energy storages can deliver power to the grid, helping to stabilize voltage and frequency.

Impact of Energy Storages on the Stability of Power Grids

Energy storages can even out fluctuations in electricity production and demand, which is particularly important for renewable energy sources known for their high instability.

Towards a Zero-Emission Direction: Energy Storage as a Key to Success

Thanks to energy storages, it is possible to increase connection capacities at low costs for expanding the power grid. This creates conditions for a smooth transition towards a zero-emission economy by increasing the share of renewable energy in the energy mix, consequently phasing out production in conventional power plants. This, in turn, should significantly reduce and stabilize energy prices in the country. The conclusion is clear: energy storages are a key element in the renewable energy revolution.