Characteristics of electrical energy storage technologies and their applications in buildings

This study has been undertaken to gain a better understanding of how to allow for energy storage in the design of a future built environment where renewable energy systems will play a significant role. Electricity storage solutions are a key element in achieving high renewable energy penetration in the built environment. This paper presents an overview of electricity storage technologies and their distinct characteristics. The currently available technologies have been classified according to the means by which each can be used in supplying energy to buildings. As the storage market is evolving rapidly, the analysis provides an up-to-date evaluation of different storage options with regard to scale, reliability and site-specificity among others. It is concluded that Li-ion batteries, which today have a limited use in the built environment, and Zn–air batteries that will be commercialised in 2013/14 are amongst the most promising technologies for buildings due to their exceptionally high energy density. They are expected to play an important role in reliable, economical and energy efficient building design in the future. NaNiCl batteries, which are currently used in vehicles, are also considered an important technology for buildings, because of their high cycle lifetime and their high peak power capability.