Startup energy storage technologies for the building level: A review

Abstract

The integration of renewable energy at the building level is increasing in popularity but brings many challenges. Energy storage, or batteries, is a potential solution to these challenges, but no currently available technology is objectively the best battery. This paper reviews promising startup company energy storage technologies at the building level, and organizes them into the following categories: cheaper, better, and greener. The amount of funding, which could be an indicator of future success, is also reviewed. Six energy storage technologies and funding for the respective startup companies were reviewed. The technologies reviewed were all found to have both advantages and disadvantages, and Aquion Energy's "green" battery was found to have received the most funding. However, with recent policy trends and a quickly moving startup culture, the energy storage industry will most likely see more activity with new technologies and companies emerging quickly.