As the energy supply composition in the United States continues to shift due to environmental and economic drivers, the need for efficient, cost effective, and reliable energy storage increases. One of the major causes of variability of power supply is the increase in renewable energy. The intermittent nature of renewable energy generation feeding the grid may make it difficult for electric utilities to effectively meet base load and peak power demands on a consistent basis. One way to combat this inconsistency, is through the use of stored energy. By having back-up energy available, increases in power demand can be managed immediately without interruption. When thinking about energy storage options, batteries (lithium-ion or flow) are often the first solution to come to mind. However, when coupled with a gas turbine generator or a fuel cell, hydrogen may be a viable option of energy storage for electric utility companies. Utilities should consider storing hydrogen (delivered via truck to the site) or if feasible, generating their own and storing on-site. Various factors must be considered to the determine the right energy storage solution.
