From fossil fuels to renewables: The role of electricity storage

Abstract

We analyze the role of electricity storage for technological innovations in electricity generation. We propose a directed technological change model of the electricity sector, where innovative firms develop better electricity storage solutions, which affect not only the relative competitiveness between renewable and nonrenewable electricity sources but also the ease with which they can be substituted. Using a global firm-level data set of electricity patents from 1963 to 2011, we empirically analyze the determinants of innovation in electricity generation, and the role of storage in directing innovation. Our results show that electricity storage increases innovation not only in renewables but also in conventional technologies. This implies that efforts to increase innovation in storage can benefit conventional, fossil fuel-fired electricity plants as well as increasing the use of renewable electricity.

Physically crosslinked KOH impregnated polyvinyl alcohol based alkaline membrane for direct methanol fuel cell

“…Fuel cells are considered a potential energy conversion device to provide clean energy for a sustainable future . However, the present energy scenario mainly depends on vast resources of fossil fuels that were formed millions of years ago . The depletion of these fossil fuels is larger than its formation by natural processes .…”

Recent Advances in Power-to-X Technology for the Production of Fuels and Chemicals

“…Transitioning from classical electricity production to sustainable models also represents its share of challenges (Lazkano et al, 2017). In opposition to traditional approaches such as nuclear, gas or coal power, renewable electricity production system such as photovoltaic panels (PV) and wind turbines (WT) is constrained by the alternating flux of electricity produced.…”

“…In addition, some of the production facilities generating this renewable electricity are already in remote locations on the globe, which in turn involves significant losses as a starter. Hence, green electricity, either flowing or peaking, is constrained by storage, which has become over the years a significant source of concern for industry and governments, unavoidably transferring to academia (Lazkano et al, 2017).…”

Development of voltage generation using bamboo-based activated carbon with water electrolyte in three types of electrodes

“…Activated carbon material, such as in batteries [1], is widely used to generate electricity. However, due to climate changes, many have sought alternatives to reduce carbon emissions [2,3]. Carbon emissions are the result of the use of fossil fuel, which continues to diminish [4,5] and increase global warming [6,7].…”