Energy generation by means of renewable technologies is irregular, so that storage systems for energy accumulation are required. This matter, which includes controversial aspects, was debated at the Energy Storage Forum organized in Rome.
The Head of Network Development of Enel Distribuzione, Francesco Sessa, explained that Enel is working on this front from two points of view. On the one hand, the Engineering and Innovation Department is testing several types of batteries at its laboratories inLivorno, “to find out whether the performance matches the expectations and to compare the different varieties".
Moreover, Enel is enacting innovative storage projects within broader smart grid testing for energy distribution. Indeed, as Sessa pointed out, " storage systems helps solve the problem, but they are not the actual solution". There are other aspects that must be taken into account.
One of Enel’s cutting-edge projects in this field is being developed in Carpinone (Isernia), where the local smart grid project includes a storage device and the so-called demand response: a system allowing the 8,000 selected users to receive information in real time on their profile, their consumption and the current cost of electricity.
Another project is being developed in Ventotene, where solar photovoltaic plants for 150 kW have been built: "In this context, the grid cannot work without a storage system", Sessa explained.
Energy accumulation systems are being developed by the Enel Group also in the other countries where it is present. Subsidiary Endesa is building one in Spain, in the Canary Islands, also within a smart grid project.
