Key points of 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.

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 .

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.

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.

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.

What determines the design of a compressed air energy storage system?

The reverse operation of both components to each other determines their design when integrated on a compressed air energy storage system. The screw and scroll are two examples of expanders, classified under reciprocating and rotary types.