Social impacts of different energy storage options

Abstract

As we are transitioning more and more towards renewable energy to address climate change, reduce greenhouse emission and ensure long term energy security. This thesis presents a systematic literature review (SLR) to comprehensively assess the social impacts associated with different energy storage options, including Lithium-ion Batteries (LIB), Pumped Hydro Energy Storage (PHES), Hydrogen Energy Storage (HES), Flow Batteries (FB). This study employs a structural SLR methodology to search for peer-reviewed journals, articles, and authoritative reports, with particular attention to Social Life Cycle Assessment (S-LCA) and Social Impact Assessment (SIA) frameworks. Key findings indicate considerable social hazards linked to Lithium-ion Batteries (LIBs), encompassing worker exploitation, community harm, and health and safety issues. Pumped Hydro Energy Storage (PHES) and flow batteries exhibit relatively diminished social risks, providing benefits in employment and community approval. The review identifies significant methodological inconsistencies, data gaps, and an underrepresentation of community-level and vulnerable stakeholder perspectives in current assessments. This work contributes to the development of more equitable and sustainable energy transitions by informing policy and practice with a holistic understanding of the social implications of energy storage technologies, aligned with global sustainability goals and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.