How It Works

What is Long Duration Energy Storage?

Long Duration Energy Storage (LDES) is technology that enables renewable energy to power the grid and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. Wind and solar are the cheapest and cleanest forms of electricity generation but we need storage to match the supply with demand. By deploying LDES, we can transition towards renewable energy in an affordable, reliable, and sustainable way.

LDES technology forms part of the solution to replace fossil fuel generators currently required to stabilise the grid. It can also store the excess energy generated by renewables. This has huge benefits in terms of cost savings, emissions reductions, and lower renewable curtailment (this is what happens when more renewable energy is available than can be delivered to customers).

For example, to ensure the stability of the system in case of a sudden disruption to power generation or demand, such as a large generator shutting down unexpectedly, the system operator (EirGrid) must make sure that there is always enough back-up power on the system. This reserve power must be available at a moment’s notice. This has huge benefits in terms of system cost savings, emissions reductions, and lower renewable curtailment.

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