The Battery-Equipped Solar Energy Storage (BESS) plants in the Gulf region, particularly in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, have reached an estimated capacity of 59.4 GWh.
According to data from MEED, and MEED Projects, approximately 21.7 GWh of battery storage capacity is currently under construction, primarily in Saudi Arabia, while projects in the pre-implementation phase have an estimated total capacity of 33.8 GWh.
Marek Kubik, an industry expert based in Saudi Arabia, states that the primary driver of energy storage growth in the Gulf countries is the rapid expansion of low-cost solar power to meet rising demand.
Moreover, Marek Kubik further explained that since Photovoltaic (PV) systems generate power only during the day and operate asynchronously, they pose challenges related to balancing, augmentation, and grid stability.
Solar power plants equipped with battery storage are essential for storing and transferring solar energy from day to night, reducing congestion, optimizing transmission system utilization, and providing stabilization services to ensure stable grid operations.
Meet the Demand
MEED highlighted in its report that while battery storage is expected to see widespread adoption, there are concerns that batteries capable of providing up to six hours of storage may not be sufficient to meet electricity demand in most Gulf countries.
In the Gulf countries, electricity demand peaks between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., as air conditioning, street lighting, and household appliances are in use, while limited wind capacity restricts renewable energy generation during these hours.
A gradual approach to deploying solar power plants with battery storage is crucial for achieving a fully renewable electricity system. Globally, this transition is happening in stages, with increasing amounts of solar power being integrated over time as renewable energy adoption deepens.
The Gulf countries have taken a significant step forward compared to other markets by initially deploying 4–6 hours of solar storage. Over a period of time, this will expand to around 8–10 hours, paving the way for a 24-hour baseload solar profile. As solar costs continue to decline, longer-duration storage systems are rapidly becoming more cost-effective.
Network Balancing
MEED highlighted that utility companies and grid operators across the Gulf countries, as well as in Morocco and Jordan, are actively planning or have already begun acquiring solar power plant capacity with battery storage. This move aims to independently store energy for grid balancing amid rising electricity demand and expanding renewable energy capacity, either as a standalone solution or as part of broader solar power plant initiatives.
Given the limited hydropower capacity and lack of large-scale thermal energy storage options like; molten salt, battery energy storage systems (BESS) stand out as the most viable solution for strengthening grid stability and integrating diverse renewable energy sources.
Source: Al Qabas
