Batteries: The game changer of the energy transition

The drive battery of an electric vehicle. Photo: Empa - Although they are indispensable nowadays, there is still a lack of knowledge and skepticism about batteries. The Forum Energy Storage Switzerland therefore compiled a compendium on research, development, potential and system integration of battery storage systems. Marcel Gauch from Empa's Technology & Society Lab has taken on the controversial life cycle assessments of batteries as well as recycling. "The increasing spread of decentralized renewable energy sources together with battery storage systems that are optimally integrated will turn the electricity system upside down - in the best sense of the word!", writes Jonas Mühlethaler, head of the Electrical Storage working group within the Forum Energy Storage Switzerland in the compendium that has been published today. However, a system-serving use of battery storage will not happen "by itself". Homeowners will have to decide whether it makes sense for them to invest in a stationary battery today or whether it would be better to wait.