A review of energy storage technologies for wind power applications

Due to the stochastic nature of wind, electric power generated by wind turbines is highly erratic and may affect both the power quality and the planning of power systems. Energy Storage Systems (ESSs) may play an important role in wind power applications by controlling wind power plant output and providing ancillary services to the power system and therefore, enabling an increased penetration of wind power in the system. This article deals with the review of several energy storage technologies for wind power applications. The main objectives of the article are the introduction of the operating principles, as well as the presentation of the main characteristics of energy storage technologies suitable for stationary applications, and the definition and discussion of potential ESS applications in wind power, according to an extensive literature review. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.