Future energy storage: technologies, management systems, and pathways for sustainable integration

This review examines the technological progress, economic viability, and growth trajectories of energy storages systems (ESSs) integrated with advanced energy management systems (AEMSs) from 2000 to 2030. This study evaluated key technologies such as battery (BESS), mechanical (MESS), and thermal (TES) storage systems via the compound annual growth rate (CAGR), net present value (NPV), and levelized cost of storage (LCOS) through a structured analysis of the peer-reviewed literature, market data, and case studies. The results show that lithium-ion batteries dominate short-term storage at a CAGR of 43% (2011–2025), driven by cost reduction and high efficiency, whereas pumped hydro remains important for long-term demand despite geographical limitations. Flow batteries and heat storage demonstrate the growth potential of grid resilience and industrial decarbonization. An advanced AEM that leverages AI and machine learning can improve operational efficiency by 10–30% in hybrid systems. This study predicts that BESSs will account for 65% of new installations by 2030, highlighting the need for policy support, material recycling, and blending solutions. This work provides actionable insights to help stakeholders align their storage deployments with global decarbonization goals.