(Repost: NetworkOnline)

The report, which was released at a recent Winter Parliamentary Reception in the House of Commons, analyses policy change in the UK. The Renewable Energy Association (REA), the report’s authors, estimates that in 2016 only 0.06 GW of battery storage was installed and operational in the UK.

12GW of battery storage, it is argued, would have a positive impact on UK energy security, would support the creation of domestic battery manufacturing and would support the export of cutting-edge low-carbon products and services post-Brexit.

Given the current pace and nature of policy change, however, the group estimates that the “medium deployment” scenario, of 8GW of battery storage is more likely. The “low deployment” scenario, if minimal regulatory change occurs and barriers are erected to slow deployment, foresees 1.7 GW.

Peter Aldous MP (Con), chair of the APPG on energy storage said: “Significant battery storage deployment is possible if the Government keeps to the targets and timelines it has already set for encouraging electricity system flexibility.

“Twelve gigawatts of battery storage would improve the UK’s energy security, would help us maximise our energy self-sufficiency, and empower consumers across the country as they are more able to manage their bills and take personal action to reduce carbon emissions. Such a significant amount of battery storage deployment would also support the Government’s ambitions to develop the UK into a battery manufacturing powerhouse, evidenced in the Faraday Challenge funding announcements last week. Battery manufacturing would create new jobs and exportable expertise post-Brexit.

“Given the actual pace of policy change at present, however, we believe that it is more likely that a “medium” scenario of around 8GW of battery storage will be in place by the end of 2021.”

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