How do I evaluate potential revenue streams from energy storage assets?

Evaluating potential revenue streams from flexible assets, such as energy storage systems, is not simple. Investors need to consider the various value pools available to a storage asset, including wholesale, grid services, and capacity markets, as well as the inherent volatility of the prices of each (see sidebar, “Glossary”).

What is the growth rate of industrial energy storage?

The majority of the growth is due to forklifts (8% CAGR). UPS and data centers show moderate growth (4% CAGR) and telecom backup battery demand shows the lowest growth level (2% CAGR) through 2030. Figure 8. Projected global industrial energy storage deployments by application

Do investors underestimate the value of energy storage?

While energy storage is already being deployed to support grids across major power markets, new McKinsey analysis suggests investors often underestimate the value of energy storage in their business cases.

How will energy storage affect global electricity production?

Global electricity output is set to grow by 50 percent by mid-century, relative to 2022 levels. With renewable sources expected to account for the largest share of electricity generation worldwide in the coming decades, energy storage will play a significant role in maintaining the balance between supply and demand.

Should energy storage be undervalued?

The revenue potential of energy storage is often undervalued. Investors could adjust their evaluation approach to get a true estimate—improving profitability and supporting sustainability goals.

Can stationary energy storage improve grid reliability?

Although once considered the missing link for high levels of grid-tied renewable electricity, stationary energy storage is no longer seen as a barrier, but rather a real opportunity to identify the most cost-effective technologies for increasing grid reliability, resilience, and demand management.