Scaling-up Sustainable Energy Storage in Developing Countries

Abstract

Background: The modularity and universal deployability of certain energy storage and variable renewable energy resources make the combination of these two elements a possible game changer for achieving universal access to electricity in developing countries while simultaneously decarbonizing their electric grids. Recent cost declines in electrochemical batteries have enabled solutions based on batteries and renewables that have proved to be cost-competitive with fossil-based alternatives in a growing number of cases. However, most widely-available battery systems may not be optimal for power systems applications operating under the challenging conditions frequently found in developing countries. Additionally, scaling-up sustainable energy storage in developing countries requires addressing a number of important challenges that are not well understood. The study presented in this article aims at identifying these challenges, and was undertaken in preparation of the Energy Storage Partnership: a consortium of over 30 organizations convened by the World Bank to jointly address them. Methods: Expert elicitation in combination with a literature review of standards, news articles, vendors’ public materials and academic literature. Results: The study identifies current challenges for scaling up energy storage in developing countries, and presents research and development work to overcome them. Conclusions: A wide spectrum of research and development actions is required for energy storage to make its full contribution to energy policy objectives in developing countries. Implementing the actions highlighted in this article will require a concerted approach by national governments and stands to benefit substantially from international cooperation.