The IELTS Reading section often features current and relevant topics. One such topic that has gained prominence in recent years is “Technological Solutions to Renewable Energy Storage.” Renewable energy storage is a critical component of modern energy solutions, addressing the variability of renewable energy sources like wind and solar power. Given its significance, this topic is likely to appear in future IELTS Reading tests. In this article, we will provide a reading practice exercise based on this topic, along with questions and detailed explanations.
Reading Passage: Technological Solutions to Renewable Energy Storage
Easy Text
Passage
Renewable energy storage is essential for enhancing the reliability and efficiency of renewable energy sources. Various technological solutions have been developed to address the challenges associated with storing renewable energy. This passage will explore three major solutions: battery storage, pumped hydro storage, and thermal energy storage.
Battery Storage is one of the most common methods of storing renewable energy. Lithium-ion batteries are widely used due to their high energy density and long cycle life. These batteries can store excess energy generated by solar panels or wind turbines and release it when needed. However, battery storage systems can be expensive and have limited capacity.
Pumped Hydro Storage involves storing energy in the form of gravitational potential energy. This method uses two water reservoirs at different elevations. When there is excess energy, water is pumped from the lower reservoir to the upper reservoir. When energy is needed, water is released back to the lower reservoir, driving turbines that generate electricity. Pumped hydro storage is cost-effective and has a large capacity but requires suitable geographical locations.
Thermal Energy Storage stores energy in the form of heat. One common form is molten salt storage, which is used in concentrated solar power plants. The heat collected is stored in molten salt and then used to produce steam to drive turbines when electricity is needed. Thermal storage is advantageous because it can store large amounts of energy for extended periods, but it can be complex to implement.
Practice Questions
Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a common method of storing renewable energy described in the passage?
- A. Nuclear storage
- B. Battery storage
- C. Hydrocarbon storage
- D. Chemical storage
What is a disadvantage of battery storage mentioned in the passage?
- A. High complexity
- B. Large geographical requirements
- C. Expensive and limited capacity
- D. Short cycle life
True/False/Not Given
Pumped hydro storage can only be used in areas with natural water reservoirs.
- True
- False
- Not Given
Thermal energy storage is rarely used in solar power plants.
- True
- False
- Not Given
Matching Information
Match the storage method with its description:
Battery Storage
- A. Uses gravitational potential energy
- B. Stores energy as heat
- C. Utilizes lithium-ion technology
Pumped Hydro Storage
- A. Uses gravitational potential energy
- B. Stores energy as heat
- C. Utilizes lithium-ion technology
Answer Key
- B. Battery storage
- C. Expensive and limited capacity
- False – The passage states that suitable geographical locations are required, but it does not specify natural reservoirs.
- False – The passage mentions that thermal energy storage, particularly molten salt storage, is used in concentrated solar power plants.
Matching Information:
- C. Utilizes lithium-ion technology
- A. Uses gravitational potential energy
Common Errors
Students may often misinterpret the questions or overlook details in the passage. For True/False/Not Given questions, ensure the answer is explicitly stated in the text. For matching information, read each option carefully and refer back to the passage to avoid confusion.
Vocabulary
- Energy Density: (noun) /ˈɛnərdʒi ˈdensɪti/ – The amount of energy stored in a given system or region of space per unit volume.
- Cycle Life: (noun) /ˈsaɪkəl laɪf/ – The number of complete charge and discharge cycles a battery can support before its capacity falls below a certain percentage of its original capacity.
- Gravitational Potential Energy: (noun) /ˌɡrævɪˈteɪʃənl pəˈtɛnʃəl ˈɛnərdʒi/ – Energy an object possesses because of its position in a gravitational field.
- Molten Salt: (noun) /ˈmoʊltən sɔlt/ – Salt that is in a liquid state due to high temperature.
Grammar Point
When creating sentences to describe functions or purposes, consider using relative clauses. For instance:
- “Lithium-ion batteries, which are widely used due to their high energy density, can store excess energy.”
Example:
- “Pumped hydro storage, which involves storing energy in water reservoirs, is cost-effective.”
Recommendations for IELTS Reading Practice
- Time Management: Allocate proper time for each passage and question type.
- Skimming and Scanning: Practice these techniques to locate key information quickly.
- Vocabulary Building: Familiarize yourself with technical terms and common phrases related to modern technology and renewable energy.
- Regular Practice: Consistently practice with various passage difficulties to build confidence.
For further reading, you may visit our related articles on technological innovations in renewable energy systems and impact of renewable energy on global trade.
Renewable Energy Storage Solutions
By following these strategies and understanding renewable energy storage solutions, you can enhance your IELTS Reading skills and increase your chances of achieving a high band score. Good luck!