Storage solutions for renewable energy: A review

Abstract

This review investigates the integration of renewable energy systems with diverse energy storage technologies to enhance reliability and sustainability. Key findings include the high energy density and scalability of lithium-ion and flow batteries, which are crucial for grid-scale applications, despite challenges in cost and raw material availability. Electrical storage methods, such as supercapacitors, provide rapid response capabilities but are limited by low energy density. Mechanical systems, including pumped hydro and compressed air storage, excel in large-scale scenarios but face geographical constraints. Emerging chemical storage technologies, including hydrogen and synthetic natural gas, offer long-term solutions but require advancements in efficiency. Thermal storage systems, such as molten salt and latent heat storage, show significant potential for renewable integration in heating and cooling, although material costs remain a barrier. The integration of hybrid systems demonstrates improved reliability and efficiency, highlighting the necessity of combining technologies to address the intermittent nature of renewable energy. Overall, the findings underscore advancements, challenges, and future research directions required for scalable and sustainable energy storage solutions.