What can ESB do for Ireland's Electricity System?

Large-scale battery energy storage projects and Turlough Hill pumped storage power station combine to reach milestone that can help to provide flexibility and support more renewables on Ireland’s electricity system. Today, ESB Networks has announced that it has 1,000 MW (one Giga Watt) of electricity storage connected to Ireland’s network.

Are battery energy storage systems a 'great achievement' in Ireland?

ESB Networks described the project as a “great achievement for battery storage” in Ireland. Battery energy storage systems, often referred to as Bess, are regarded as a vital part of the Ireland’s fledgling renewable energy sector and demand for them has never been higher.

How does electricity storage work in Ireland?

For context, peak demand on Ireland’s electricity system is approximately 5.5 GW. Electricity storage systems such as utility-scale battery projects also provide essential backup services to the grid that help to keep the electricity supply secure, reduces carbon emissions and ultimately reduces costs to the consumer.

What is energy storage Ireland?

Energy Storage Ireland in 2019 recognised that solutions such as Pumped Storage Hydro (PSH), Liquid Air Energy Storage (LAES), Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES) and others require locations with specific geographical characteristics which are not particularly common on in Ireland.

How much battery storage capacity does Ireland have?

We currently have more than 300MWs of battery storage capacity in operation in Ireland, making it one of the largest battery portfolios in Europe. We have set an ambitious and bold course of action to help Ireland achieve climate action targets and transition the country to reliable, affordable, net zero energy.

What storage technologies are needed in Ireland?

Currently the two key storage technologies in Ireland are short duration battery storage and pumped storage hydro. Both are established technologies and batteries especially are modular and have short build times. However, the future system may need additional storage technologies to encourage an optimal generation mix.