Expected ROI of solar diesel hybrid storage project in Canada 2026

Do hybrid energy resources provide value to integrated electrical systems?

While hybrid resources (e.g. wind-storage and solar-storage combinations) may allow for greater flexibility compared to stand alone renewables or storage, the value they may provide to an integrated electrical system, beyond that of the sum of value provided by their underlying components, is not clear.

How many energy storage projects are there in Alberta?

While there are nearly 50 energy storage projects currently listed within the Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO)’s projects list, the development of a 600MW portfolio of five solar-plus-storage projects by Westbridge Renewable Energy Corp. is underway.

Should energy storage be a key component of Canada's energy future?

Long-duration storage should be a key component of Canada’s energy future Additionally, while it is important we act and act quickly to deploy energy storage to meet the evolving needs of Canada’s energy system, we also need to act with an eye toward the long-term beyond 2035.

What are the cost forecasts used in IESO's 2022 P2D study?

The cost forecasts used in this module are updated from the values that were used in the IESO’s 2022 P2D study and are based on the 2023 NREL ATB report. NREL provides capital cost projections for wind generation and both utility-scale and distribution-scale installations of solar and storage.

Is pumped hydro the future of energy storage?

Pumped hydro currently dominates the global energy storage market, accounting for more than 90% of market capacity. However, in recent years, the use of batteries has increased as a result of cheaper production costs and promising greater capacity.

How do IESO forecast the cost of new renewable resources?

The IESO currently bases most of its forecasts for the cost of new renewable resources on the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s (NREL) Annual Technology Baseline (ATB) report1. The ATB is an annual survey of resource cost projections that is a common reference point for both industry and academic studies.