Energy storage systems including batteries

Kinetic Pumped Storage

How Energy is Stored Advantages Disadvantages
  • Pumps move water to higher elevation during low demand
  • Water released through turbines to generate power when needed
  • Large-scale storage capacity (GW-hours possible)
  • 80% round-trip efficiency
  • 50-60 year lifespan
  • Requires specific geography (two reservoirs at different heights)
  • High initial construction costs
  • Environmental impact on waterways

Alkaline Batteries

How Energy is Stored Advantages Disadvantages
  • Zinc and manganese dioxide react with potassium hydroxide electrolyte
  • Single-use (non-rechargeable) chemical reaction
  • Low cost per unit
  • Long shelf life (5-10 years)
  • Widely available
  • Non-rechargeable (single use)
  • Lower energy density than lithium-ion
  • Environmental waste when disposed

Rechargeable Batteries

How Energy is Stored Advantages Disadvantages
  • Lithium-ion/NiMH cells store energy via reversible chemical reactions
  • Can undergo hundreds/thousands of charge cycles
  • Reusable (300-1000+ charge cycles)
  • Higher energy density than alkaline
  • Versatile applications (EVs to grid storage)
  • Higher upfront cost
  • Degradation over time
  • Recycling challenges for lithium batteries

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