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Energy storage allows energy to be saved for use at a later time. Energy can be stored in many forms, including chemical (piles of coal or biomass), potential (pumped hydropower), and electrochemical (battery). Energy storage can be stand-alone or distributed and can participate in different energy markets (see our The Grid: Electricity Transmission, Industry, and Markets page for more information about energy markets).

Energy storage is a valuable tool for balancing the grid and integrating more renewable energy. When energy demand is low and production of renewables is high, the excess energy can be stored for later use. When demand for energy or power is high and supply is low, the stored energy can be discharged. Due to the hourly, seasonal, and locational variability of renewable production, energy storage is critical to facilitating the clean energy transition.

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