How battery energy storage systems are transforming India's energy landscape?

India’s energy landscape is undergoing a significant transformation as the country strides towards achieving its ambitious renewable energy goals. At the heart of this transformation is the deployment of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), which play a pivotal role in ensuring the stability, reliability, and efficiency of the energy grid.

Why is energy storage important in India?

As India pursues its ambitious renewable energy targets and aims to enhance energy security, energy storage systems are set to play a critical role in the country’s power sector. The integration of large amounts of variable renewable energy into the grid presents significant challenges, which energy storage can help address.

Which technologies are front runners for grid-scale energy storage in India?

Two key technologies have emerged as front runners for grid-scale energy storage in India – pumped storage projects (PSPs) and battery energy storage systems (BESSs). Renewable Watch presents the strengths, challenges and evolving dynamics of these two technologies in the Indian context

How can energy storage help a grid-scale energy storage system?

The integration of large amounts of variable renewable energy into the grid presents significant challenges, which energy storage can help address. Two key technologies have emerged as front runners for grid-scale energy storage in India – pumped storage projects (PSPs) and battery energy storage systems (BESSs).

Should energy storage be a priority in India?

Energy storage must remain a priority in India’s broader strategy to achieve carbonization across all sectors, from transportation to industry. India’s renewable energy aspirations hinge on the widespread deployment of battery energy storage systems.

How much energy storage capacity does India need?

To achieve these targets, India will require substantial energy storage capacity. As per Central Electricity Authority estimates, the country may need around 16.13 GW of storage capacity (7.45 GW PSP and 8.68 GW BESS) by 2026, increasing to over 73.93 GW (26.69 GW PSP and 47.24 GW BESS) by 2030 as per the National Electricity Plan.