The global energy storage market is expanding rapidly, driven by the need to integrate renewable sources and ensure the stability of electricity grids.
This article addresses the growth of the sector, the main demanding sectors, Brazil's position in relation to developed countries, national and international costs, leading companies in this market and the barriers that still need to be overcome for the development of technology in Brazil.
Energy storage market growth
The global energy storage market added 175,4 GWh of installed capacity in 2024, with China, the Americas and Europe accounting for more than 90% of these installations. By 2025, the market is forecast to increase by 26,5%, reaching 221,9 GWh of new installed capacity.
By 2030, global energy storage installations are expected to reach 358 GW, a more than twenty-fold increase from the 17 GW recorded at the end of 2020, as pointed out by BloombergNEF (absolar.org.br).
Sectors with the highest demand for energy storage
The demand for energy storage technologies is driven by several sectors:
Renewable energy
The integration of sources such as solar and wind requires storage solutions to ensure the stability and reliability of energy supply.
Mining industry
Companies in the sector are adopting storage systems to ensure a continuous and clean energy supply, aligning with sustainability goals.
Residential and commercial sector
There is a growing adoption of energy storage systems in homes and businesses, especially in countries such as Germany, Japan, Australia and the United States, aiming to maximize energy efficiency and reduce operating costs.
Brazil's position in relation to developed countries
Brazil is exploring energy storage alternatives, such as pumped water storage.
However, the general trend in Latin America leans towards solutions based on Batteries, aiming to maximize efficiency and reduce operating costs. Chile, for example, is a leader in the adoption of these technologies in the region.
National and international costs
The costs of energy storage technologies have been falling globally, making them more affordable. The falling prices of lithium-ion batteries have been a key driver of the growth of clean energy storage, although challenges such as availability and cycle life still exist.
In Brazil, storage initiatives such as pumped water storage are being explored, but the adoption of battery-based solutions still faces challenges related to costs and infrastructure.
Companies at the forefront of energy storage solutions
Several companies are leading the development and implementation of energy storage solutions:
CATL (Contemporary Amperex Technology)
It stands out in the electric vehicle battery market, contributing significantly to the advancement of energy storage technologies.
Tesla
It leads exports of electric vehicles and invests in integrated energy storage solutions.
BYD and Sungrow
Chinese-backed companies leading energy storage projects in the Middle East and Africa.
Main barriers to the development of energy storage in Brazil
High capital costs: The high initial investment for implementing energy storage systems is a significant barrier. Dependence on imported technologies makes projects more expensive.
Regulation and public policies: The absence of a clear regulatory framework and specific incentives for energy storage creates uncertainty for investors and companies in the sector.
Network infrastructure: The current infrastructure of Brazilian electricity grids needs modernization to efficiently integrate storage systems.
Access to capital and financing: High interest rates and inflation in the supply chain make it difficult to attract investment.
Technical knowledge and training: The lack of skilled labor and specialized technical knowledge limits the implementation and effective operation of these systems in the country.
Opportunities and paths for development in Brazil
Establishment of public policies and regulation: The creation of a specific regulatory framework for energy storage, combined with tax and financial incentives, can attract investments.
Public-private partnerships: Collaboration between government and the private sector can enable pilot projects and large-scale initiatives.
Investment in research and development: Promoting research into storage technologies, adapted to Brazilian needs, can reduce costs and increase efficiency.
Professional training: Implementing specialized training and education programs in energy storage is essential to meet the demand for qualified professionals.
By addressing these barriers and seizing opportunities, Brazil can consolidate energy storage as a strategic pillar in its energy matrix, promoting sustainability and efficiency in the electricity sector.
The opinions and information expressed are the sole responsibility of the author and do not necessarily represent the official position of the author. Canal Solar.
