Do investors underestimate the value of energy storage?

While energy storage is already being deployed to support grids across major power markets, new McKinsey analysis suggests investors often underestimate the value of energy storage in their business cases.

What is a battery energy storage project?

A battery energy storage project is a system that serves a variety of purposes for utilities and other consumers of electricity, including backup power, frequency regulation, and balancing electricity supply with demand.

Is energy storage a profitable business model?

Although academic analysis finds that business models for energy storage are largely unprofitable, annual deployment of storage capacity is globally on the rise (IEA, 2020). One reason may be generous subsidy support and non-financial drivers like a first-mover advantage (Wood Mackenzie, 2019).

Is battery storage a good investment?

The economics of battery storage is a complex and evolving field. The declining costs, combined with the potential for significant savings and favorable ROI, make battery storage an increasingly attractive option.

How has the cost of battery storage changed over the past decade?

The cost of battery storage systems has been declining significantly over the past decade. By the beginning of 2023 the price of lithium-ion batteries, which are widely used in energy storage, had fallen by about 89% since 2010.

Are battery storage projects financially viable?

Different countries have various schemes, like feed-in tariffs or grants, which can significantly impact the financial viability of battery storage projects. Market trends indicate a continuing decrease in the cost of battery storage, making it an increasingly viable option for both grid and off-grid applications.