With energy storage becoming an important element in the energy system, each player in this field needs to prepare now and experiment and develop new business models in storage. They need to understand the key success factors of future market leaders and reinforce those in the next five years to contribute value to storage and the overall system.

However, most storage technologies are not yet mature. They cannot yet compete with alternatives to storage, like flexible power generation, more interconnections and demand-side management. Neither clear nor convincing business models have been developed. The lessons from twelve case studies on energy storage business models give a glimpse of the future and show what players can do today. The advent of new energy storage business models will affect all players in the energy value chain.

In this publication we offer some recommendations. The new business models in energy storage may not have crystallized yet. But the first outlines are becoming clear. Now is the time to experiment, gain experience and build partnerships. To be ready for the future and be a part of the future.