How many energy storage projects are there in Europe?

There are 147 energy storage projects under construction in Europe, with a total capacity of 14 GW, according to the European Energy Storage Inventory, launched by the European Commission. The European Energy Storage Inventory comprises operational, under construction, permitted, and announced energy storage projects across Europe.

How does energy storage work in the EU?

The main energy storage method in the EU is by far 'pumped storage hydropower', which works by pumping water into reservoirs when there is an electricity surplus in the grid - for example on a sunny or windy day - and releasing it when more energy is needed.

What percentage of Europe's energy storage capacity is pumped hydro?

However, despite an exponential growth in Europe’s battery energy storage capacity, which reached 36 gigawatt-hours in 2023, pumped hydro still accounted for 90 percent of the electricity storage capacity in the European Union that year.

Which energy storage technology is the most popular in Europe?

Pumped hydro is the most widely used technology for energy storage in Europe and worldwide, but batteries and hydrogen have come into the spotlight over the last decade as a recent trend in the energy storage market.

How big is Europe's battery energy storage system?

Europe is racing to add very large grid batteries to balance rising wind and solar output. As of mid–late 2025, four utility-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects stand out by size — each designed in the 0.5–2.8 GWh class and backed by reputable developers and public filings.

What is Europe's largest battery energy storage system in Belgium?

Sungrow and ENGIE bring Europe’s largest battery energy storage system online in Belgium with the completion of its first 400 MWh phase. Nathan G is a reporter from Nairobi, Kenya. He has written for Construction Review for just over four years.