Rapid penetration of wind and solar generation technologies, with their intermittent nature, presents a growing challenge to the stability of the existing electric grids in many countries. Energy storage is becoming an essential component of the electric power infrastructure for securing reliable electricity supply in regions with significant share of wind and solar energy. For example, the state of California, which is close to reaching the target of 33% renewable power generation, requires its major utility companies to procure 1.3 GW of energy storage capacity by 2020. By enabling future growth of renewable power and avoiding excessive generation curtailment, energy storage contributes to reduction of greenhouse gases and all other emissions related to power generation from fossil fuels.
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