Enhancing compressed air energy storage

What is compressed air energy storage (CAES)?

Compressed air energy storage (CAES) is an effective solution for balancing this mismatch and therefore is suitable for use in future electrical systems to achieve a high penetration of renewable energy generation.

How does a compressed air energy storage system work?

The performance of compressed air energy storage systems is centred round the efficiency of the compressors and expanders. It is also important to determine the losses in the system as energy transfer occurs on these components. There are several compression and expansion stages: from the charging, to the discharging phases of the storage system.

Where can compressed air energy be stored?

The number of sites available for compressed air energy storage is higher compared to those of pumped hydro [, ]. Porous rocks and cavern reservoirs are also ideal storage sites for CAES. Gas storage locations are capable of being used as sites for storage of compressed air .

Can a compressed air energy storage system achieve pressure regulation?

In this paper, a novel scheme for a compressed air energy storage system is proposed to realize pressure regulation by adopting an inverter-driven compressor. The system proposed and a reference system are evaluated through exergy analysis, dynamic characteristics analysis, and various other assessments.

What are the advantages of compressed air storage system?

Provides significantly high energy storage at low costs. Compressed air storage systems tend to have quick start up times. They have ramp rate of 30% maximum load per minute. The nominal heat rate of CAES at maximum load is three (3) times lower than combustion plant with the same expander.

What is a compressed air storage system?

The compressed air storages built above the ground are designed from steel. These types of storage systems can be installed everywhere, and they also tend to produce a higher energy density. The initial capital cost for above- the-ground storage systems are very high.