The Role of Energy Storage in Promoting Sustainable Energy Transition in an Island Community

Abstract

Integrating a high share of intermittent renewable energy sources requires supply and demand side flexibility to meet the demand in various time scales. Especially important here are different forms of energy storage. This paper analyzes the role of energy storage in promoting sustainable energy transition and decarbonization in Åland, an autonomous island region of Finland. The analysis examines battery energy storage, pumped hydro storage, and thermal energy storage technologies in a 100% renewable scenario using the EnergyPLAN energy system analysis tool. Results point to a strong potential for energy storage to reduce curtailment of renewable energy, increase the use of locally produced renewable energy, and further promote electrification of the energy sector. While complete energy independence is not possible with the studied scenarios, the island's dependency on importing and exporting electricity was greatly reduced.