Energy Storage Explained: How It Works and Why It Matters
With the world constantly advancing and increasing demands on our electricity—from electric vehicles to AI data centers—energy storage is needed now more than ever. As we try to move towards a more sustainable and reliable source, this type of storage could be the answer. It keeps homes running during emergencies, supports renewable energy initiatives and offers a stable electricity supply when we need it most.
We’ll explain everything you need to know about energy storage, how it works, and how you and your home can benefit from it.
Understanding Energy Storage
Energy storage is when a device or group of devices capture energy and stores it for use at a later time. Some of the most common types include battery (chemical), mechanical, and thermal.
It’s a means of using excess energy instead of letting it go to waste. The systems take this excess energy when it’s not needed, and then release it when demand is high. An example of this is a home battery storage system using solar panels to take the excess during high production times—such as when the sun is particularly strong—and storing it for later.
If there’s a power outage, this stored energy can be used to keep your home appliances up and running, even when the grid is down. An excellent choice for your own home is the EcoFlow DELTA 3 Max Plus, which can be charged with solar panels to capture excess energy during the day and store it for emergencies or nighttime use.
Why Energy Storage Matters for the Grid and Consumers
These storage systems reduce the demand placed on the grid during peak hours, reducing the likelihood of power outages and blackouts. A more consistent and stable power supply is crucial during times of emergency, such as natural disasters. When electricity surges, instead of drawing on high-emission Peaker Plants, systems can draw on clean, renewable energy and avoid price spikes.
For consumers, it offers a reliable source of electricity when the grid goes down. It provides peace of mind that you don’t have to rely on the grid for a stable supply, and you can side-step any rising costs by tapping into your energy stored at lower rates.
How Energy Storage Enhances Renewable Energy Use
Energy storage is fundamental to the future of renewable energy. The sun doesn’t shine 24/7, and the wind won’t always generate enough electricity to meet increasing demands, but with energy storage systems, we can utilize periods of excess renewable generation and use it at times of increased demand. This means there’ll be much less waste and a better balance between supply and demand. By stabilizing the grid, we can benefit from a more reliable power supply and a lower likelihood of blackouts.
And it’s not just large-scale companies and businesses that can benefit. On a smaller scale, home battery storage systems are changing the way homeowners use electricity. A battery storage system works in the same way—either by using solar panels or charging via the grid—to capture excess energy and store it for a later time, be it in an emergency or grid outage.
Best of all, these systems reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and are a step towards a much more sustainable, greener future.
DELTA 3 Max Plus Portable Power Station
Common Storage Technologies
There are three main types of storage methods. These include:
Battery storage: Otherwise known as chemical storage. Most modern BESS (battery energy storage systems) rely on lithium-ion batteries, but others use lead-acid or other emerging solid-state batteries. Energy is stored in the battery and discharged when needed. An example of this is using a home battery storage system to stockpile excess produced by the grid or solar power, and using it during a power outage or a natural disaster.
Mechanical storage: Mechanical energy storage uses motion or gravity to store electricity. They’re known for their durability and long lifespans, and it can be done through a variety of methods, such as via a flywheel, pumped hydro, or compressed air energy storage (CAES). CAES air is compressed and stored in underground tanks or caverns. This air is released to spin a turbine to generate electricity when it’s needed. It’s good for long durations and grid-level applications.
Thermal storage: This method takes excess energy from renewable sources or waste heat and stores it to be later used for heating applications or power generation. It’s often used in businesses and industrial processes, but a common residential use is the hot-water tank. It works by heating water during times of low-cost or high-generation and stores it for later use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Three Types of Energy Storage?
The three types of storage are chemical, mechanical, and thermal. Chemical storage includes batteries and is often used in portable power stations. Mechanical includes flywheels or pumped hydro, storing energy through kinetic or gravitational forces. Thermal works by storing heat that has been captured by solar panels or heat pumps.
Is It Good To Invest in Energy Storage?
Yes! Investing in an energy storage system like a home power storage battery comes with a ton of benefits. These include saving on your energy bill, being better for the environment, having a backup in an emergency, and independence from the grid.
Energy Storage Stabilizes Grids, Empowers Homes, and Drives a Greener Future
There is a new emerging demand for energy storage systems as the grid attempts to support our excessive energy use, driven by the growth of AI data centers and EV chargers. Energy storage systems can reduce the risks of power outages and reduce our carbon footprint. Using a system like the EcoFlow DELTA 3 Max Plus can help you save on your electric bills and become energy independent, all while doing good for the environment.