4 FAQs about Can energy storage projects be profitable

Do investors underestimate the value of energy storage?

While energy storage is already being deployed to support grids across major power markets, new McKinsey analysis suggests investors often underestimate the value of energy storage in their business cases.

Should energy storage be undervalued?

The revenue potential of energy storage is often undervalued. Investors could adjust their evaluation approach to get a true estimate—improving profitability and supporting sustainability goals.

Should energy storage be shifted from abundance to scarcity?

Shifting the electricity they produce from times of abundance to times of scarcity is one of the most promising ways to allow for more renewables on the grid. With so many organizations, researchers, and governments interested in the benefits of energy storage the question shifts to how they balance value against the costs.

How do I evaluate potential revenue streams from energy storage assets?

Evaluating potential revenue streams from flexible assets, such as energy storage systems, is not simple. Investors need to consider the various value pools available to a storage asset, including wholesale, grid services, and capacity markets, as well as the inherent volatility of the prices of each (see sidebar, “Glossary”).

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