Ireland accelerates new energy storage

When will long duration energy storage be available in Ireland?

The Irish Electricity Storage Policy Framework, published after this data was collected, indicates that an immediate route to market for 500 MW of long duration energy storage is currently being developed, with further studies planned to support long duration storage from 2030 to 2040 (Government Of Ireland 2024a).

What is the electricity storage policy framework for Ireland?

The Electricity Storage Policy Framework for Ireland This is a strategic initiative aimed at transforming Ireland’s energy infrastructure. As the use of renewable energy sources increases, so too does the challenge of managing the intermittent nature of these energy sources and ensuring that a stable energy infrastructure is in place.

Could energy storage transform Ireland's energy system?

If this pipeline was built out, the report states that Ireland could capture all of that wasted energy, further reducing our reliance on fossil fuels, and driving down energy costs for consumers. "Energy storage solutions can transform our electricity system for the better," said Bobby Smith, head of Energy Storage Ireland.

What changes are needed to increase energy storage development in Ireland?

The focus group participants noted several key second stage policy areas that required changes in order to increase the amount of energy storage development in Ireland. These included legislative changes, adjustments to the planning approval process, the development of forecasting models, grid improvements and the introduction of targets.