Are battery energy storage systems a viable solution?

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) are one viable solution. An advanced technological solution, they function by storing renewable energy which can then be used when power is required. They help address the challenge of intermittent renewable energy, and provide clean power 24 hours a day, no matter the weather conditions.

Which country has the most battery storage capacity in MENA?

Currently, NaS battery technology dominates the battery storage capacity in operation in MENA, particularly in the UAE, with a total of 108 MW/648 MWh projects developed by the Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority (ADWEA).

Why is battery storage so important?

Having sufficient battery storage systems is crucial, but it’s equally important that these systems can meet the future global demand. According to the IEA, a capacity of 1,200GW will be needed by 2030, an enormous increase from the 85GW recorded in 2023. This means greater investments and innovation are needed to adopt BESS.

Are batteries gaining traction in MENA?

Electrochemical energy storage, or batteries, are gaining traction in MENA, where out of the total on-grid ESS projects, 80% are of the battery type. However, this share constitutes only 7% of the operational ESS energy, equivalent to 677 MWh, the bulk of which is installed in the UAE.

Which states are investing in battery energy storage systems?

Other states in the US are also investing in battery energy storage systems with Texas and Arizona set to record the biggest growth, increasing the nation’s battery output 10-fold to 16,000 megawatts. China is also spearheading the charge for BESS.

Which energy storage technology has the most installed capacity in MENA?

Pumped hydro storage (PHS) has the largest share of installed capacity in MENA at 55%, as compared to a global share of 90%. Pumped hydro storage is one of the oldest energy storage technologies, which explains its dominance in the global ESS market.