Photovoltaic energy storage in rural Finland

Is energy storage a viable option in Finland?

This study reviews the status and prospects for energy storage activities in Finland. The adequacy of the reserve market products and balancing capacity in the Finnish energy system are also studied and discussed. The review shows that in recent years, there has been a notable increase in the deployment of energy storage solutions.

Is energy storage the future of wind power generation in Finland?

Wind power generation is estimated to grow substantially in the future in Finland. Energy storage may provide the flexibility needed in the energy transition. Reserve markets are currently driving the demand for energy storage systems. Legislative changes have improved prospects for some energy storages.

Which energy storage technologies are being commissioned in Finland?

Currently, utility-scale energy storage technologies that have been commissioned in Finland are limited to BESS (lithium-ion batteries) and TES, mainly TTES and Cavern Thermal Energy Storages (CTES) connected to DH systems.

Is solar electricity a viable alternative to self-consumption in Finland?

In Finland, solar electricity has so far been a financially competitive alternative only if the self-consumption rate has been high. Now, however, the situation is changing, as solar farms are being built to produce electricity to sell directly to the main grid.

Can PHS be used as energy storage in Finland?

Plans exist for PHS systems, but studies have indicated that there may be few suitable locations for PHS plants in Finland [94, 95]. While large electrolyzer capacities are planned to produce renewable hydrogen, only pilot-scale plans currently exist for their use as energy storage for the energy system (power-to-hydrogen-to-power).

What factors influence the development of energy storage activities in Finland?

Several parameters are influencing the development of energy storage activities in Finland, including increased VRES production capacities, prospects to import/export electricity, investment aid, legislation, the electricity and reserve markets and geographic circumstances.