On generation-integrated energy storage. (November 2015) - Garvey, S.D.
Abstract: Generation-integrated energy storage (GIES) systems store energy at some point along the transformation between the primary energy form and electricity. Instances exist already in natural hydro power, biomass generation, wave power, and concentrated solar power. GIES systems have been proposed for wind, nuclear power and they arise naturally in photocatalysis systems that are in development. GIES systems can compare very favourably in both performance and total cost against equivalent non-integrated systems comprising both generation and storage. Despite this, they have not hitherto been recognised as a discrete class of systems. Consequently policy decisions affecting development or demonstration projects and policy approaches concerning low-carbon generation are not fully informed. This paper highlights that policy structures exist militating against the development and introduction of GIES systems-probably to the detriment of overall system good. Highlights: Current wisdom considers that energy storage and generation must be separate. Integrating energy storage with generation lowers capital costs. Integrating energy storage with generation reduces total energy losses. Existing policies militate against such integrated systems being developed.