Storage of wind power energy: main facts and feasibility − hydrogen as an option

Abstract

The befalling of natural disasters has been experienced at an alarming level in the last decade due to discharging excessive amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere. The world needs to decarbonise itself sooner than later. To combat environmental impact and the climate change, several key initiatives were taken by countries like the UK, Japan, Europe, and Canada. That includes decarbonising the power sector entirely by bringing in renewable energy in place of fossil fuel on an agreed timeline. Many countries have committed to zero emission by 2050. However, it will not be easy to depend on 100% of renewable energy grid without renewable energy storage capability to assure grid stability. Therefore, this publication's key fundamental objective is to discuss the most suitable energy storage for energy generated by wind. A review of the available storage methods for renewable energy and specifically for possible storage for wind energy is accomplished. Factors that are needed to be considered for storage selection and the requirements are discussed. Wind farm capacity is one of the essential parameters that could affect selection procedures. It is recommended that detailed calculations be made of available energy and the excess power amount to be stored. However, the article discusses the most viable storage options such as liquid metal batteries grid embedded storage for frequency and voltage stability and produces green Hydrogen from surplus wind energy, especially in Sri Lanka.