Can chemical plants be equipped with energy storage batteries

A guide to bringing thermal batteries to chemical and refining plants across the United States. The heating needs of the chemicals and petroleum refining sectors account for 5 percent to 6 percent of US greenhouse gas emissions. Today, most of this heat is generated by burning natural gas or other fossil fuels.

Among these technologies, batteries and battery storage systems with improved or new battery chemistries will play a crucial role in the energy transition. As the energy transition rapidly expands, demand for critical minerals used in battery technologies is expected to rise sharply.

Depending on how it is stored, it can be kept over long periods and is not seasonally dependent like pumped hydro. Chemical storage can add power into the grid and also store excess power from the grid for later use. Alternatively, many chemicals used for energy storage, like hydrogen, can decarbonize industry and transportation.

Battery technologies provide advanced energy storage solutions, ensuring a stable and resilient energy grid, enhancing energy access in developing countries and fostering economic growth.

Chemical energy storage scientists are working closely with PNNL's electric grid researchers, analysts, and battery researchers. For example, we have developed a hydrogen fuel cell valuation tool that provides techno-economic analysis to inform industry and grid operators on how hydrogen generation and storage can benefit their local grid.

This rise highlights the imperative of energy transition, from polluting fossil fuels to the widespread adoption of clean energy technologies within the energy mix. Among these technologies, batteries and battery storage systems with improved or new battery chemistries will play a crucial role in the energy transition.