On the generation side, energy storage is used to make intermittent renewable power more predictable and dispatchable. Transmission networks use storage to maintain grid stability by using storage interchangeably as a load or a source. For distribution networks, energy storage is used to manage peak loads and improve power quality at stressed nodes.
Behind the meter, energy storage is being used to optimize electricity bills through time of day energy arbitrage, peak shaving to reduce demand charges and power quality improvement. Grid ancillary services are also providing an additional revenue stream for such assets.
For off-grid locations or locations with frequent grid outages, renewables + storage is proving to be an excellent alternative to diesel generators - cleaner as well as more cost effective.