> There is a difference between short-term and long-term storage. True. But there's no reason you can't use both. So the "smooth out daily variation" and "sto

> There is a difference between short-term and long-term storage. True. But there's no reason you can't use both. So the "smooth out daily variation" and "store energy to address seasonal changes" are 2 problems that can be attacked independently. Maybe some solution(s) may be useful for both jobs, but this is not necessary. I suspect in most cases, batteries will be more practical / economical for short-term storage. For long-term storage (or transporting energy across the globe) methanol is just one of many options.