What are the different types of energy storage?

The most used types of energy storage are pumped hydropower, thermal storage, flywheels, and batteries. While certain technologies, such as pumped hydropower, are mature technologies with a proven track record of implementation and operation, other technologies, such as large-scale battery storage, are more novel.

Are pumped hydro and battery energy storage a new technology in Canada?

Some technologies, like pumped hydro, have a long history in Canada. Others, like battery energy storage systems (BESS) are new technologies to many and raise questions, especially as project approvals anticipate the integration of these assets into peoples’ communities.

What is Ontario's energy storage system?

Ontario’s electricity system moves forward with largest energy storage procurement ever in Canada. Energy storage is changing the way electricity grids operate. Under traditional electricity systems, energy must be used as it is made, requiring generators to manage their output in real-time to match demand.

Should energy storage be a key component of Canada's energy future?

Long-duration storage should be a key component of Canada’s energy future Additionally, while it is important we act and act quickly to deploy energy storage to meet the evolving needs of Canada’s energy system, we also need to act with an eye toward the long-term beyond 2035.

What are energy storage technologies?

Energy storage technologies harness and store previously generated energy and then release it as electricity. When certain renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, cannot meet energy demands because of their intermittent nature, energy storage technologies offer a valuable solution.

What is energy storage?

Energy storage is how electricity is captured when it is produced so that it can be used later. It can also be stored prior to electricity generation, for example, using pumped hydro or a hydro reservoir. With energy storage, we can capture electricity during times of low demand and return it to the grid during periods of greater need.