Has europe s demand for energy storage weakened

How much energy storage capacity does the EU need?

These studies point to more than 200 GW and 600 GW of energy storage capacity by 2030 and 2050 respectively (from roughly 60 GW in 2022, mainly in the form of pumped hydro storage). The EU needs a strong, sustainable, and resilient industrial value chain for energy-storage technologies.

What does the European Commission say about energy storage?

The Commission adopted in March 2023 a list of recommendations to ensure greater deployment of energy storage, accompanied by a staff working document, providing an outlook of the EU’s current regulatory, market, and financing framework for storage and identifies barriers, opportunities and best practices for its development and deployment.

Why is energy storage important in the EU?

It can also facilitate the electrification of different economic sectors, notably buildings and transport. The main energy storage method in the EU is by far 'pumped hydro' storage, but battery storage projects are rising. A variety of new technologies to store energy are also rapidly developing and becoming increasingly market-competitive.

How has Europe responded to Russia's gas shortage?

Despite the significant drop in Russian energy supplies – from 45% of our gas imports last year, to just 14% in September 2022 – Europe has managed to find alternative supplies and reduced its demand to compensate for the shortfall.

Why should EU countries consider the 'consumer-producer' role of energy storage?

It addresses the most important issues contributing to the broader deployment of energy storage. EU countries should consider the double 'consumer-producer' role of storage by applying the EU electricity regulatory framework and by removing barriers, including avoiding double taxation and facilitating smooth permitting procedures.

Is Europe loosing the grip of Russia over its energy sector?

Quite the opposite, Europe ended winter with a remarkable milestone for its energy sector: EU gas storages were almost 60% full, a record amount. This didn't grab the headlines, but it matters. Because it shows that Europe has finally loosened the grip that Russia had over its energy sector.