2026 energy storage field forecast
Global installed storage capacity is forecast to expand by 56% in the next five years to reach over 270 GW by 2026. The main driver is the increasing need for system flexibility and storage around the world to fully utilise and integrate larger shares of variable renewable energy (VRE) into power systems.
As the photovoltaic (PV) industry continues to evolve, advancements in 2026 energy storage field forecast have become critical to optimizing the utilization of renewable energy sources. From innovative battery technologies to intelligent energy management systems, these solutions are transforming the way we store and distribute solar-generated electricity.
3 FAQs about [2026 energy storage field forecast]
Will global storage capacity expand by 56% in 2026?
Global installed storage capacity is forecast to expand by 56% in the next five years to reach over 270 GW by 2026. The main driver is the increasing need for system flexibility and storage around the world to fully utilise and integrate larger shares of variable renewable energy (VRE) into power systems. IEA. Licence: CC BY 4.0
How will global electricity storage capacity grow in 2026?
Addressing global electricity storage capabilities, our forecast expects them to increase by 40% to reach almost 12 TWh in 2026, with PSH accounting for almost all of it. India dominates storage capability expansion by commissioning over 2.5 TWh (80% of the expansion) thanks to projects using existing large reservoirs.
How much does CSP storage capacity increase by 2026?
CSP storage capabilities almost double partly thanks to the longer storage hours (10 hours on average) of projects under construction in China, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, South Africa, Chile and Greece. Similarly, global battery storage capabilities also increase eightfold by 2026.