Principle of small air energy storage power generation

What is small scale compressed air energy storage (Ss-CAES)?

Today, small scale compressed air energy storage (SS-CAES) are also recently applied as an alternative to replace batteries in autonomous systems and as storage for intermittent renewable sources, promoting load leveling. These systems require compact and efficient power stages, with remarkable presence of power electronics.

Are energy storage systems a fundamental part of an efficient energy scheme?

Energy storage systems are a fundamental part of any efficient energy scheme. Because of this, different storage techniques may be adopted, depending on both the type of source and the characteristics of the source. In this investigation, present contribution highlights current developments on compressed air storage systems (CAES).

What is compressed air energy storage?

Compressed air energy storage (CAES) is one of the most promising mature electrical energy storage technologies. CAES in combination with renewable energy generators connected to the main grid or installed at isolated loads (remote areas for example) are a viable alternative to others energy storage technologies.

What determinants determine the efficiency of compressed air energy storage systems?

Research has shown that isentropic efficiency for compressors as well as expanders are key determinants of the overall characteristics and efficiency of compressed air energy storage systems . Compressed air energy storage systems are sub divided into three categories: diabatic CAES systems, adiabatic CAES systems and isothermal CAES systems.

How many kW can a compressed air energy storage system produce?

CAES systems are categorised into large-scale compressed air energy storage systems and small-scale CAES. The large-scale is capable of producing more than 100MW, while the small-scale only produce less than 10 kW . The small-scale produces energy between 10 kW - 100MW .

What are the advantages of compressed air energy storage systems?

One of the main advantages of Compressed Air Energy Storage systems is that they can be integrated with renewable sources of energy, such as wind or solar power.