US energy storage grew almost 250% in 2015 over 2014, with over 200 MWs deployed bringing the total deployment to an estimated 450–500 MWs, with close to 1.5–2 GWs globally.  A recent report issued by NY–BEST recommended that New York State adopt a mandate for up to 2 GWs of energy storage to address growing strains on the grid and the rise in grid–tied renewable energy systems.  The authors specifically cited a GE study that called for up to 8 GWs to eliminate the need for peaker plants and curtailment programs.  Meanwhile in California, Southern California Edison, in an attempt to prevent rolling blackouts due to the massive Aliso Canyon natural gas leak, recently issued an expedited request for battery storage as a means to address the problem.  It is clear that, as costs come down, and energy density and safety rise, the ability of our technologies to provide firm, reliable, fast–responding, and emission–free dispatchable power, will solve many of the issues facing the grid.

2015 U.S. energy storage rose almost 250%

Top 10 countries for storage capacity