To reduce its emissions of greenhouse gases, the EU needs
to shift from the current, fossil fuels-based energy system
to a low-carbon, mainly renewables-based energy system.
To facilitate this energy transition, more energy storage is
needed, both for the grid and for transport. This briefing
paper outlines the main challenges to the development of
energy storage in the EU.
We based our analysis on documentary reviews, visits
to energy storage research projects, interviews with the
Commission and stakeholders in the field of energy storage,
our previous audits and briefing papers and consultation
with an expert in energy storage technologies and markets.
The challenges we found are threefold: i) designing
a strategy for energy storage; ii) using research and
innovation effectively; and iii) establishing a supportive
legislative framework.