Energy storage systems : KPI assessment and prioritisation of R&I targets

This Position Paper 'KPIs for Energy Storage Systems and prioritisation of R&I targets' is an initiative of the ETIP SNET WG2 (Storage technologies and system flexibilities) with the objective of defining a vision for R&D&I of storage technologies and involving stakeholders in this vision. It analyses different energy storage and conversion technologies, focusing on the specific challenges they face and trying to prioritise and suggest R&I actions to overcome them. Performance Goals are introduced and defined to support the analysis and identify the main challenges. A mapping exercise is performed to define priorities and optimise the R&I strategy to overcome them, as well as a set of KPIs to set targets for the years 2025 and 2031. The paper does not consider battery technology, given the comprehensive list of actions already taken at European level to stimulate the European battery industry and to boost the necessary R&I ecosystem. Energy storage and conversion technologies can provide the necessary flexibility to the energy system across different timescales. Several technologies are available, and their state of the art showed different level of development and maturity. Some of these are established technologies, while others have yet to demonstrate their potential at scale. The outcome of this Position Paper is summarised in a set of targets for each of the analysed energy storage technologies. The mapping exercise allowed the authors to prioritise KPIs to focus on in order to measure the effectiveness of R&I efforts to challenge specific Performance Goals and make the respective technology a suitable solution for the decarbonisation path of the European energy system.