Energy Storage Systems

• What is pumped-storage hydroelectricity?

  A method of storing energy using water
• What are two advantages of pumped-storage?

  • Provides grid stability
  • Can quickly respond to energy demand
• What is a disadvantage of pumped-storage?

  High construction and maintenance costs
• What do flywheels store?

  Mechanical energy
• What is an advantage of flywheels?

  High power output and quick response
• What is a disadvantage of flywheels?

  Limited energy storage duration
• Name a location using pumped-storage.

  Bath County Pumped Storage Station
• How does pumped-storage convert energy?

  By moving water between reservoirs
• Are flywheels efficient? Why or why not?

  Yes, they have low energy losses
• How does mechanical storage help the grid?

  It provides backup power during outages
• Name two types of batteries.

  Lithium-ion and lead-acid
• What is an advantage of lithium-ion batteries?

  High energy density
• Name two disadvantages of lithium-ion batteries.

  High cost and limited lifespan
• Where are lead-acid batteries commonly used?

  In vehicles and backup power systems
• How do capacitors store energy?

  By accumulating electric charge
• Name an application of capacitors.

  Power supply smoothing
• Why are lithium-ion batteries preferred in EVs?

  Due to their high energy density
• Why is battery recycling important?

  To recover valuable materials and reduce waste
• Why are lithium-ion batteries expensive?

  Due to high material and manufacturing costs
• Name two industries relying on electrical storage.

  Automotive and renewable energy
• What is thermal storage?

  A method of storing heat energy
• How is molten salt used for energy storage?

  It stores heat for later use
• What is an advantage of molten salt systems?

  Long-duration energy storage capability
• How does hot water store energy?

  By heating water to retain thermal energy
• Why are thermal systems efficient?

  They minimize energy losses during storage
• How does hydrogen store energy?

  By converting energy into chemical bonds
• What do hydrogen fuel cells produce as a by-product?

  Water
• What is an advantage of hydrogen fuel cells?

  They produce only water as a by-product
• What is a disadvantage of hydrogen fuel cells?

  High production and storage costs
• Why is hydrogen important for the future?

  It offers a clean energy alternative