The many lives of battery B: A systems view on the energy storage market formation by Merla Kubli, TU Delft

Abstract: Batteries are increasingly present in the energy system – rolling on our streets in electric vehicles, standing in basements to buffer rooftop solar power, or strategically placed in districts to provide for peak power consumption and earn returns from balancing power markets. With the latest technologies, batteries can even be repurposed for a second or third life or reincarnated through recycling of the materials. This presentation sheds light on the intertwined factors influencing the market formation dynamics of the battery industry. Building on insights from System Dynamics simulation studies and consumer choice experiments investigating the diffusion of home storage batteries, business dynamics of a battery swarm, user acceptance for smart electric vehicle charging and implications of EU battery regulation enforcing a circular economy for batteries, we explore the many facets of the life of a battery in the energy system. We conclude with some central dynamics that can be distilled and avenues for further research. 

Bio: Dr. Merla Kubli  is assistant professor of System Dynamics for Policy Analysis at the Technology, Policy and Management faculty of TU Delft. Her research at the Policy Analysis section focusses on the business dynamics of climate solutions. In particular she is active in the fields of low-carbon innovations of renewable energies, decentralized flexibility and circular economy solutions for electric vehicle batteries. Merla Kubli is passionate about research that combines rigor and relevance, and to contribute to spreading climate solutions. In her research, she applies System Dynamics simulation and choice experiments to investigate the consumer-provider interactions for emerging business models. In collaboration with the energy industry, she supports companies in their strategy and business development to capture the opportunities of the energy transition.

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