In order to properly evaluate
different energy storage technologies it is important to establish a set of
objective metrics and qualifying attributes. This is similar to how metrics and
attributes are used to evaluate different consumer products such as automobiles
or computers. Acceleration, horsepower, torque, cabin size, mileage, estimated
cost of ownership, etc. are all metrics used to objectively describe a car.
They also allow for comparison between different makes and models of
automobiles and even different types of automobiles. Analogously, a description
of an energy storage product and comparison between different energy storage
products and technologies is facilitated through a series of metrics.
Some of the metrics used to quantify Energy Storage are:
It must also be noted that though
objective metrics exist for energy storage technologies that facilitate
comparison and decision-making, subjective considerations or conditions unique
to the given situation may prove a significant factor in selecting an
“appropriate” energy storage device. Hopefully, energy storage purchases are
not guided by the same emotional considerations that often guide consumer
automobile purchases (Road & Travel Magazine, 2012) . However, just like
automobile purchases, unique considerations may ultimately motivate the
selection of an energy storage technology that would otherwise not be optimal
considering only the above mentioned metrics. In evaluating an energy storage
technology for a given installation, these subjective considerations or unique
conditions beyond the standard metrics must also be taken into account (Baxter, 2012) .
These applications and metrics provide a common language for understanding
an energy storage device’s capabilities. As previously stated the effort to
describe and categorize energy storage technologies, based on a set of
“standard” metrics or applications, is somewhat confounded by the dynamic,
innovative nature of the industry. The following section will provide a
description of different types of energy storage technologies followed by a
discussion of the current relationship between energy storage and renewable
energy generation.
Works Cited
Baxter, R. (2012, November 28). Author, Energy
Storage; a Nontechnical Guide. (M. Banta, Interviewer)
Road & Travel Magazine. (2012). Emotional
Connection Between Car and Consumer. Retrieved December 2, 2012, from Road
& Travel Magazine:
http://www.roadandtravel.com/company/advertising/relationshipauto.htm
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