What's hindering the deployment of energy storage devices in distributed photovoltaic systems: An evolutionary game analysis based on system dynamics

Abstract

This paper investigates the obstacles hindering the deployment of energy storage (ES) in distributed photovoltaic (DPV) systems by constructing a tripartite evolutionary game model involving energy storage investors (ESIs), distributed photovoltaic plants (DPPs), and energy consumers (ECs). Utilizing system dynamics (SD), this study systematically analyzes how parameter changes impact the deployment of DPV-ES systems. The findings reveal several critical impediments: (1) Lack of Incentives for DPPs. Under basic parameters, DPPs show no incentive to adopt positive deployment strategies due to high costs without corresponding returns. (2) Parameter Influence. Factors such as weak electricity supply capacity for ECs, high accident risk charges, and land rent may hinder ESIs or DPPs from adopting positive deployment strategies. However, stakeholders' initial willingness, fines for ECs, profit distribution ratios, and annual investment costs of ES systems do not alter participant strategies. (3) Cooperative Relationships and Economic Factors. Higher unit electricity prices and accident risk charges associated with DPV-ES plants increase electricity costs for ECs, potentially hindering the deployment of ES systems and leading to a circular game among stakeholders without ESS deployment. This study provides valuable insights for government and industry stakeholders to identify and eliminate barriers to the integrated development of DPV and ES systems, thereby promoting more effective deployment strategies.