With the rapid expansion of renewable energy sources such as photovoltaics and wind farms, the importance of energy storage is increasingly recognized. Energy storage systems are gaining significance across Europe as indispensable tools for ensuring stability and efficient management of renewable energy. They enable the balancing of discrepancies between electricity production and consumption, which is particularly crucial given the growing number of prosumers and variable weather conditions.
Energy Storage in Europe – Report
According to the European Market Monitor on Energy Storage (EMMES) 9.0, published in March 2025, Europe’s total energy storage capacity reached 89 GW by the end of 2024. This figure encompasses various technologies, including pumped hydro storage and battery energy storage systems (BESS), reflecting the continent’s commitment to integrating renewable energy sources and enhancing grid stability.
State of the Energy Storage Market in Europe in 2025
The European energy storage sector is experiencing dynamic growth, aligning with global trends. In 2024 alone, Europe added 19.1 GWh of new energy storage capacity, marking a 12.4% year-over-year increase. Projections indicate that by 2025, an additional 27 GWh will be installed, representing a 41% annual growth. Italy has emerged as the largest energy storage market in Europe, surpassing Germany and the UK, primarily through front-of-meter installations.
Largest Energy Storage Facilities in Europe
Europe hosts several significant energy storage projects:
- Coire Glas, Scotland: A £1.5 billion pumped hydro storage facility under development, expected to provide 1,300 MW of power with a storage capacity of 30 GWh, sufficient to power 3 million homes.
- Green Turtle, Belgium: One of Europe’s largest battery energy storage systems, with a planned capacity of 2,800 MWh, designed to enhance grid stability during periods of low renewable energy production.
- Blackhillock, Scotland: Europe’s largest operational battery storage project, currently supplying 200 MW of electricity for two hours, with plans to expand to 300 MW.
Planned Energy Storage Projects in Europe
Several ambitious energy storage projects are underway across Europe:
- Earba Storage Project, Scotland: A proposed pumped-storage hydroelectricity scheme with a planned capacity of 1.8 GW and storage capacity of 40 GWh, aiming to be the largest of its kind in the UK.
- Hornsea Project 3, UK: An offshore wind farm development that includes a 300 MW / 600 MWh battery storage facility, enhancing the integration of renewable energy into the grid.
- Highview Power, UK: Construction of a 50 MW / 300 MWh liquid air energy storage plant in Manchester, representing one of the world’s largest long-duration energy storage facilities.
National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs) in Europe
European countries have outlined ambitious targets in their National Energy and Climate Plans:
- Germany: Aims to achieve 80% renewable electricity by 2030, necessitating significant expansion of energy storage capacities.
- France: Plans to increase battery storage capacity to support its growing renewable energy portfolio.
- Italy: Focuses on enhancing front-of-meter energy storage installations to stabilize the grid and integrate renewables effectively.
Prospects for Energy Storage Development
Energy storage stands as a cornerstone of Europe’s energy transition, facilitating the efficient use of renewable sources and bolstering grid stability. The increasing number of investments, both domestic and international, underscores the continent’s commitment to a modern, green energy landscape. In the coming years, these solutions will not only support the energy system but also offer tangible benefits to residents and local communities.
