Value of Long-Duration BESS to the GB Power System

This report presents an analysis of the role of long-duration battery energy storage systems (BESS) in achieving the Clean Power 2030 objectives for the UK power system. It outlines the necessity of expanding long-duration energy storage (LDES) capacity to ensure grid stability and cost-effectiveness as renewable energy generation increases. The UK Government's roadmap indicates a need to grow LDES capacity significantly by 2030. The report also discusses the limitations of alternative technologies, such as pumped hydro storage and compressed air energy storage, which may hinder the achievement of these targets. In contrast, long-duration BESS is identified as a more reliable and cost-effective solution. The analysis includes various scenarios assessing the impact of current Cap and Floor policies on BESS investment and highlights the need for appropriate incentives to support long-duration BESS development. Overall, the findings suggest that long-duration BESS can provide substantial system benefits and cost savings compared to other LDES technologies.