Manama Battery Energy Storage System Project

Why are energy storage systems being integrated in MENA?

The pace of integration of energy storage systems in MENA is driven by three main factors: 1) the technical need associated with the accelerated deployment of renewables, 2) the technological advancements driving ESS cost competitiveness, and 3) the policy support and power markets evolution that incentivizes investments.

Are batteries gaining traction in MENA?

Electrochemical energy storage, or batteries, are gaining traction in MENA, where out of the total on-grid ESS projects, 80% are of the battery type. However, this share constitutes only 7% of the operational ESS energy, equivalent to 677 MWh, the bulk of which is installed in the UAE.

Which energy storage solutions will be the leading energy storage solution in MENA?

Electrochemical storage (batteries) will be the leading energy storage solution in MENA in the short to medium terms, led by sodium-sulfur (NaS) and lithium-ion (Li-Ion) batteries.

Which energy storage technology has the most installed capacity in MENA?

Pumped hydro storage (PHS) has the largest share of installed capacity in MENA at 55%, as compared to a global share of 90%. Pumped hydro storage is one of the oldest energy storage technologies, which explains its dominance in the global ESS market.

Which country has the most battery storage capacity in MENA?

Currently, NaS battery technology dominates the battery storage capacity in operation in MENA, particularly in the UAE, with a total of 108 MW/648 MWh projects developed by the Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority (ADWEA).

Will energy storage expand in MENA?

The current utility business model limits the prospects of energy storage expansion opportunities, unless driven by direct governmental support. Auctions in MENA have been a major driver for renewable energy deployment, most notably for solar and wind, but only a few have included energy storage.