Role of distributed storage in a 100% renewable UK network

Abstract

This study considers generation and demand challenges of a 100% renewable UK electricity grid and poses the question whether this can be addressed through the use of distributed energy storage. To explore this issue, hourly demand and electricity generation profiles for a year have been constructed for a variety of renewable sources and demand scenarios. Alongside baseline projections, further scenarios have been produced that include extensive uptake of electric heat pumps for domestic heating and hot water, as well as moderate uptake of electric vehicles. It is proposed that these technologies are used on a local scale to help integrate the additional renewable electricity generated within a predetermined zone of the electricity network. Analysis has been carried out to determine the pinch points in the UK network where renewable electricity generation is greater than local electricity demand. From this, consideration has been given to understanding the real impact distributed energy storage in the form of heat pumps and electric vehicles can have in helping balance a 100% renewable UK electricity grid. Initial results have found that, depending on the demand scenario and location on the network, there is the potential to accommodate up to 50% of the excess electricity generated.