Which types of energy storage are most commonly used in electrical grids?

Batteries, pumped hydro storage, and flywheels represent the most commonly used types of energy storage in electrical grids due to their unique characteristics and effectiveness in balancing supply and demand.

Batteries are vital for their ability to provide quick responses to power fluctuations. They store electrical energy chemically and can discharge it rapidly when needed, making them ideal for short-term energy management and grid stabilization.

Pumped hydro storage utilizes the gravitational potential energy of water. During periods of low electrical demand, excess energy is used to pump water to a higher elevation. When demand increases, the stored water is released to generate electricity, providing a significant and reliable large-scale storage solution.

Flywheels store energy mechanically as rotational kinetic energy. They can be charged and discharged quickly and are often used for short-duration applications where immediate energy delivery is required, making them suitable for smoothing out short-term fluctuations in the grid.

The combination of these technologies allows for a balanced, resilient, and efficient electrical grid, ensuring that supply matches demand effectively. Each storage type complements the grid's needs, helping to enhance reliability and support the integration of renewable energy sources.