Energy storage offers a range of opportunities for standalone developers, generators, network operators and consumers (ranging from large energy users through to domestic. Energy storage is not new – the scale of pumped hydro deployment across the globe is significant. The new technologies, however, are technologies. As set out above, there are a wide variety of energy storage technologies and applications available. As a result there are a number of legal issues to consider, although the relative importance of such issues will be informed by the specific energy storage project. Energy storage may be used in a range of project types, including standalone, co-located, and behind-the-meter projects. Our review demonstrates that no jurisdiction currently provides a comprehensive regulatory framework for energy storage, with the majority of jurisdictions currently.
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Our review demonstrates that no jurisdiction currently provides a comprehensive regulatory framework for energy storage, with the majority of jurisdictions currently allowing storage to be defined as “generation” for the purposes of licensing and other regulatory requirements.
Do we need a legal framework for electrical storage?
There is a need to establish an appropriate legal framework particularly in light of the number of new initiatives coming forwards. For example, EDF has presented a major electrical storage plan with the objective of becoming the European leader in the sector by 2035.
Are there legal issues relating to energy storage?
As set out above, there are a wide variety of energy storage technologies and applications available. As a result there are a number of legal issues to consider, although the relative importance of such issues will be informed by the specific energy storage project design. revenue stream requirements e.g. double circuit connection.
Which energy storage technologies are being installed?
As is evident from our survey, a range of energy storage projects have been installed or are due to be deployed in the majority of jurisdictions; and whilst battery technologies are receiving the bulk of industry attention at present, a range of technologies have been, and are due to be, installed, pumped hydro storage in particular.
Energy storage offers a range of opportunities for standalone developers, generators, network operators and consumers (ranging from large energy users through to domestic consumers) and other electricity sector participants. Storage is an increasing focus due to the range of benefits the various technologies can provide.
Energy storage is not new – the scale of pumped hydro deployment across the globe is significant. The new technologies, however, are technologies that are frequently quick to build out, often have fast response times and have a range of potential applications.