Energy storage and net zero

The Role of Energy Storage in Achieving Net-Zero Goals

As the world presses forward towards a more sustainable future, the goal of net-zero emissions is becoming increasingly central to governments, businesses, and communities. A crucial piece of this transformation puzzle is energy storage. With the growing share of intermittent renewable energy such as solar and wind power, efficient and scalable storage systems are essential to stabilize the grid, ensure reliability, and ultimately achieve net-zero targets.

In Switzerland, transitioning to net-zero is not just a goal but a national priority. The Swiss Energy Strategy 2050, initiated by the Federal Office of Energy (BFE), sets ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase the share of renewable energy, and improve energy efficiency. In a country rich in hydropower, Switzerland has traditionally relied on pumped storage power plants, which currently make up over 90% of storage capacity. However, as renewable energy generation becomes more decentralized and variable, there is a growing need for advanced battery storage solutions to complement the existing infrastructure.

Energy storage systems play several crucial roles in achieving net-zero. They help balance fluctuations in renewable energy generation, serve as backup power during peak loads or grid outages, and improve the overall efficiency of the energy system. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), global storage capacity increased by more than 30% between 2019 and 2022, largely due to supportive policy measures and market incentives (IEA Report on Renewables 2022). BFE forecasts suggest that the expansion of battery storage systems in Switzerland will be critical to achieving decarbonization goals, with an expected growth rate of up to 50% over the next ten years.

At Modual, we are proud to contribute to this transformation by offering innovative second-life battery solutions that seamlessly integrate into Switzerland's net-zero strategy. Our approach leverages the unused potential of used batteries from electric vehicles. Even after their first lifecycle in automotive applications, these batteries often retain about 70–80% of their original capacity. Instead of recycling these cells, we transform them into powerful, eco-friendly energy storage systems. This reduces waste, cuts costs, and lowers the environmental impact of battery production and disposal.

Energy storage is more than just a technical solution—it drives both economic and ecological benefits. In Switzerland, where energy prices are relatively high and the grid is increasingly strained by a growing share of renewable energies, effective storage systems can help reduce dependency on imported fuels and lower the overall CO₂ footprint. The ability to store excess renewable energy during low demand periods and release it when needed enables Switzerland to maximize the use of clean energy sources. Research from ETH Zurich indicates that efficient energy storage in urban areas could reduce carbon emissions by up to 20% over the next 20 years (ETH Zurich Research).

Innovative technologies in energy storage are rapidly evolving. For instance, solid-state batteries offer the potential for higher energy density, improved safety, and faster charging times compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries. Although solid-state technology is still in the early stages of commercial deployment, its potential is undeniable. Several Swiss research institutes and start-ups are actively working on refining these technologies in the hope that they will soon complement or even replace existing storage systems.

The role of policy in promoting these advancements cannot be overstated. The regulatory environment in Switzerland supports renewable energies and energy storage through various incentives, such as tax benefits, subsidies, and grants. These policy measures aim to foster investment in cutting-edge storage solutions and drive innovation. For example, Switzerland's CO₂ Law and related initiatives provide a clear roadmap for reducing emissions, making energy storage not only an environmental but also a financially attractive domain. Furthermore, Switzerland closely aligns with the European Green Deal, which sets ambitious goals for achieving net-zero by 2050 (Swiss Energy Strategy 2050).

Concrete examples underscore the transformative impacts of energy storage. In Germany, projects like the Walchensee pumped storage power plant have significantly helped balance renewable energy fluctuations, while in the US, large-scale battery storage installations are increasingly contributing to modernizing the power grid. In Switzerland, new battery storage projects are emerging alongside traditional hydropower plants, demonstrating the versatility and necessity of modern storage systems. These projects not only enhance grid stability but also help reduce CO₂ emissions and energy costs.

Statistics highlight the scale of this development. Forecasts predict that the global market for battery storage could reach over 600 billion US dollars by 2030, driven by the integration of renewable energies and the need for flexible, reliable energy systems (Bloomberg NEF Report). In Switzerland, where renewable energies already account for over 60% of electricity generation, energy storage is crucial to maintaining grid stability and achieving net-zero. Modual's solutions are part of this exciting movement, offering high-performance systems that transform used EV batteries into sustainable energy assets.

At Modual, sustainability is at the heart of our innovation. By redefining the lifecycle of batteries and implementing circular economy principles, we contribute to reducing waste and minimizing the environmental impact of energy storage. This approach not only supports Switzerland's ambitious net-zero goals but also sets a global benchmark for how we can shape a more sustainable energy future.

In conclusion, energy storage is a cornerstone of the net-zero transformation. It enables the integration of intermittent renewable energy sources, improves grid stability, and reduces reliance on fossil fuels. Switzerland's proactive energy policy and ambitious goals provide fertile ground for the rapid expansion of modern storage systems. As we continue to innovate at Modual, we are proud to contribute to a sustainable, resilient energy system that paves the way for a cleaner, greener future.

What do you think about the role of energy storage in achieving net-zero? How can we better integrate innovative storage solutions into our energy systems? I invite you to share your thoughts and discuss with us how we can collectively shape a sustainable future.

About Modual

Modual is Switzerland’s leading second-life battery manufacturer, dedicated to creating sustainable energy solutions through innovative battery technology. By repurposing electric vehicle (EV) cells, Modual provides high-performance, eco-friendly battery systems for a variety of applications. Our commitment to sustainability, coupled with our rapid growth and technological leadership, enables us to significantly reduce the environmental impact of energy storage. At Modual, we are passionate about driving a cleaner, greener future, one battery at a time.

Contact us now for a non-binding offer.