What is energy storage system deployment in MENA?

Energy Storage System deployment in MENA Energy Storage Systems (ESS) play a critical role in the integration of VRE into the power grid, as these systems manage the intermittencies of renewable energy resources and mitigate potential power supply disruptions.

Which energy storage solutions will be the leading energy storage solution in MENA?

Electrochemical storage (batteries) will be the leading energy storage solution in MENA in the short to medium terms, led by sodium-sulfur (NaS) and lithium-ion (Li-Ion) batteries.

Does the UAE have energy storage systems in the GCC region?

The UAE has installed most of the energy storage systems in the GCC region. In 2016, Abu Dhabi Water & Electricity Authority announced the deployment of around 108 MW of sodium-sulfur-based BESS with an individual capacity of around 4 MW and 8 MW at diferent locations to support their distribution network.

Can energy storage be integrated in MENA?

Although the energy storage market in MENA is bound to grow, several barriers exist that hinder the integration of ESS and the ramping up of investments. Financial, regulatory, and market barriers need to be addressed via policy tools that lay the foundations for an evolved power market to integrate the deployed ESS.

Which energy storage technology has the most installed capacity in MENA?

Pumped hydro storage (PHS) has the largest share of installed capacity in MENA at 55%, as compared to a global share of 90%. Pumped hydro storage is one of the oldest energy storage technologies, which explains its dominance in the global ESS market.

What is an energy storage system?

An energy storage system is charged from the grid or by on-site generation to be used at a later time to take advantage of price diferentials. Energy storage is used instead of upgrading the transmission network infrastructure. The storage system provides the grid with the necessary output to ensure the voltage level on the network remains steady.