Energy Storage Trends

Top 5 Energy Storage Trends in 2025: What UK Solar Businesses Need to Know

As renewable energy continues to dominate the global power landscape in 2025, energy storage systems are stepping into the spotlight. With wind and solar projected to overtake coal as the world’s leading electricity source this year, the energy storage market is evolving rapidly to meet new demands.

For UK businesses relying on solar power, staying ahead of energy storage trends is crucial—not just for efficiency, but for sustainability too. At PV Recycling, we’re here to help, collecting and recycling solar panels and batteries for businesses across the UK. 

Here are the top five trends shaping energy storage in 2025—and what they mean for you.

1. Battery Energy Storage Takes Center Stage

Battery energy storage is becoming the backbone of renewable integration. With storage deployments surging, lithium-ion battery systems are leading the charge, thanks to their proven reliability and scalability. These systems store excess energy from solar arrays during peak production, ensuring grid stability when the sun isn’t shining. 

For businesses, this means greater energy independence—but also more batteries reaching end-of-life. PV Recycling’s battery recycling services ensure these units are disposed of responsibly, recovering materials like lithium and cobalt for reuse.

2. Long-Duration Energy Storage Gains Traction

The rise of long-duration energy storage is a game-changer for the energy transition. Traditional batteries excel at short-term storage, but new solutions like flow batteries are emerging to provide power for days, not just hours.

With higher energy density and the ability to support large-scale solar and wind projects, these systems are perfect for businesses aiming to maximise renewable energy use. As adoption grows, PV Recycling is preparing to handle the unique recycling needs of these advanced technologies.

3. Smarter Battery Technology Enhances Efficiency

Advancements in battery technology are making energy storage smarter and more efficient. AI-driven battery management systems (BMS) now optimise charging cycles, boosting storage capacity and extending lifespan. For businesses, this translates to lower costs and fewer replacements. 

4. Grid Upgrades Drive Storage Innovation

The UK’s push for grid upgrades is accelerating the need for robust energy storage solutions. As the grid adapts to handle more renewable energy, battery energy storage systems are critical for balancing supply and demand. 

Modular designs and hybrid solar-storage setups are popping up nationwide, offering flexibility and resilience. For businesses upgrading their solar infrastructure, PV Recycling provides seamless collection and recycling of outdated panels and batteries, keeping your operations sustainable.

5. Diversification Beyond Lithium-Ion

While the lithium-ion battery remains dominant, 2025 is seeing a shift toward alternatives. Flow batteries, with their scalability and longevity, are gaining ground for large-scale applications, while solid-state batteries promise safer, higher-capacity options. This diversification is expanding the energy storage systems landscape, supporting both solar and wind growth. 

Why These Trends Matter for UK Solar Businesses

With the UK government aiming for clean power to meet 100% of electricity demand by 2030, storage capacity will be key to unlocking the full potential of solar power. These trends offer cost savings, improved reliability, and a stronger sustainability profile.