A U.S. solar industry group, the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), has unveiled an ambitious target to deploy vast amounts of energy storage capacity by 2030, aiming to bolster renewable energy’s ability to meet the needs of power-hungry customers. This goal comes in response to the rising electricity demands from large energy consumers, such as data centers, which have been turning to traditional energy sources like nuclear, geothermal, and natural gas power plants. SEIA envisions that large-scale energy storage, primarily through lithium-ion batteries, can ensure that zero-emission energy sources like wind and solar can meet demand even when the sun isn’t shining or the wind isn’t blowing.
By 2030, SEIA aims to see 700 gigawatt-hours of energy storage integrated into the grid—an ambitious target that is 55% higher than current projections. The association’s strategy also envisions a shift in how energy storage is deployed, with 20% of all installations expected to serve residential, commercial, and community energy needs, while the remaining 80% would be integrated into the grid to help stabilize energy supplies and facilitate the wider use of renewable energy.
To achieve this goal, SEIA is calling on policymakers and regulators to implement supportive measures, including initiatives to boost domestic battery manufacturing, creating favorable conditions for energy storage to compete in wholesale markets, and establishing state procurement programs. Another key component of SEIA’s request is the continuation of federal subsidies for energy storage systems, which were introduced under the Inflation Reduction Act during the Biden administration.
As the push for energy storage continues, the political landscape around energy infrastructure is evolving. Former President Donald Trump has been vocal about his support for faster permitting processes for energy infrastructure, particularly in the fossil fuel sector, but has expressed opposition to renewable energy projects, including solar. Last week, Trump signed an executive order suspending federal leasing and permitting for wind energy projects, highlighting the ongoing tensions between renewable energy advocates and proponents of traditional energy sources.
SEIA’s ambitious storage goals reflect the growing importance of integrating energy storage systems into the national grid to make renewable energy a viable and reliable power source for large-scale energy consumers. The success of these initiatives will depend on the cooperation of industry leaders, regulators, and lawmakers who can help create a framework for rapid growth in the energy storage sector, which will be essential for meeting the needs of the future energy market.
