Hidden Power: Surprising places energy storage is transforming everyday industries

We take so many things in life for granted until they directly affect us. I remember one day, many years ago in my home country of Brazil, when I was working as an engineering intern at the city hall, there was a major traffic circle that connected to several industrial hubs; it was constantly jammed. To fix it, we needed to completely redesign the traffic flow. The first step? Reverse traffic directions and change the traffic lights — right in the middle of rush hour with the help of the local police. And yes, it was as crazy as it sounds.

That experience was a powerful reminder of how essential something as simple as a traffic light can be. When they don’t function properly, the result isn’t just a traffic jam; it can be dangerous and even fatal.

Back then, I never would have imagined that one day I’d work in an industry focused on making sure that even when the power grid goes down, a small device can keep the lights on and life going. Energy storage is more than just a convenience; it’s a life-impacting necessity. It silently supports our modern lives, saves lives, creates opportunities, and turns the impossible into possible.

The silent power behind critical industries

Many industries rely heavily on energy storage, often unnoticed until something goes wrong. From transportation to infrastructure, stored energy ensures reliability, safety, and sustainability in the background of our everyday lives. Here are three surprising sectors where energy storage plays a crucial role:

1. Railroads: Batteries behind the rails

The railroad industry depends on batteries more than most realize. Applications include:

• Hybrid and battery-electric locomotives. Rail companies are deploying hybrid diesel-electric and fully battery-electric locomotives to reduce fuel use and emissions, especially in urban areas and rail yards.
• Onboard auxiliary systems: Batteries support lighting, communications, HVAC, and braking systems, especially when engines are off or idling.
• Railway signaling and crossing gates: Remote or off-grid crossing signals rely on battery backups for continuous operation during power outages.
• Regenerative braking in metro systems: Trains capture and store energy during braking much like electric vehicles.

Why it matters

• Cuts greenhouse gas emissions and reduces noise pollution
• Enhances resiliency in remote or off-grid rail lines
• Boosts energy efficiency and supports decarbonization goals

2. Traffic Infrastructure: Powering the flow of cities

Modern urban mobility hinges on uninterrupted power for:

• Traffic signals and intersection control systems: Many cities use battery backups to ensure traffic lights remain operational during outages.
• Portable traffic signs and road safety equipment: Solar-powered signs and barriers use batteries to function independently for weeks.
• Smart traffic systems and sensors: Batteries power IoT-enabled devices such as vehicle counters, air quality monitors, and speed detectors.
• Tunnel and bridge systems: Emergency lighting, communication systems, and fans rely on battery backups for safety.

Why it matters

• Ensures public safety and prevents traffic chaos during grid failures
• Powers smart city advancements with real-time adaptability
• Maintains 24/7 operation in critical traffic zones

3. Oil & Gas: Energy storage in harsh environments

In one of the world’s most demanding industries, batteries power the following:

• Remote monitoring stations and wellheads: These often lack grid access and rely on solar-plus-battery systems for sensors and telemetry.
• Pipeline infrastructure: Cathodic protection systems, essential for preventing corrosion, are often battery-backed.
• Offshore platforms: Batteries support navigation lights, safety systems, and communication towers.
• Microgrids for remote operations: Drilling rigs, exploration camps, and isolated pumping stations use battery-backed microgrids for reliable power.
• Microgrids for isolated operations

Why it matters

• Reduces dependence on diesel generators cutting fuel costs and emissions
• Increases safety and reliability in extreme or remote locations
• Supports real-time data and communication uptime

Conclusion

Energy storage may be behind the scenes, but its impact is front and center keeping essential systems running, enabling innovation, and shaping a more resilient and sustainable future

Glauci Rosen is Technical Support and Customer Relations Manager, Energy Storage and Stationary Power at MK Battery. A wholly owned subsidiary of East Penn Manufacturing Co., MK Battery is a global supplier of the specialty batteries for use in deep-cycle and standby power applications.

MK Battery | www.mkbattery.com