Geological exploration of underground air energy storage

How does a geological storage facility use electrical energy?

This process uses electrical energy to compress air and store it under high pressure in underground geological storage facilities. This compressed air can be released on demand to produce electrical energy via a turbine and generator.

Where is compressed air energy storage most likely to be used?

North America and Sub-Saharan Africa have the highest shares globally. Northeast and Southeast Asia have the least potential for compressed air storage. This paper presents the geological resource potential of the compressed air energy storage (CAES) technology worldwide by overlaying suitable geological formations, salt deposits and aquifers.

Can a positive experience from underground storage of natural gas be extrapolated to compressed air?

The positive experience gained from underground storage of natural gas cannot be directly extrapolated to compressed air storages because of the risk of reactions between the oxygen in the air and the minerals and microorganisms in the reservoir rock.

What causes buoyancy in underground geological storage?

Buoyancy caused by the density differences between CO and the underground water (hydrogeological) system is a factor affecting pressure buildup in the formation. The rate of injection, the permeability and thickness of the injection formation, and the presence or absence of permeability barriers within it also play a role.

Where can offshore geological storage be accessed from?

Offshore geological storage can be accessed from the shore or from offshore platforms. Within these basins, oil fields, depleted gas fields, deep coal seams and saline formations are all possible storage formations (Figure 5.3). Subsurface geological storage is possible both onshore and offshore.

What types of geological storage are possible?

Subsurface geological storage is possible in various formations within basins, including oil fields, depleted gas fields, deep coal seams, and saline formations (Figure 5.3). These storage formations can be found both onshore and offshore.