Diagram of the principle of compressed air energy storage in oil wells

How is air compressed?

In Compressed Air Energy Storage, air is compressed using compressors and stored in storage tanks. The compressor is run by a motor generator to which the excess available energy is fed.

What is the theoretical background of compressed air energy storage?

Appendix B presents an overview of the theoretical background on compressed air energy storage. Most compressed air energy storage systems addressed in literature are large-scale systems of above 100 MW which most of the time use depleted mines as the cavity to store the high pressure fluid.

Where will compressed air be stored?

In a Compressed Air Energy Storage system, the compressed air is stored in an underground aquifer. Wind energy is used to compress the air, along with available off-peak power. The plant configuration is for 200MW of CAES generating capacity, with 100MW of wind energy.

What is compressed air energy storage?

Compressed air energy storage (CAES) is a promising energy storage technology due to its cleanness, high efficiency, low cost, and long service life. This paper surveys state-of-the-art technologies of CAES, and makes endeavors to demonstrate the fundamental principles, classifications and operation modes of CAES.

What is the typical pressure used in compressed air energy storage?

During the operation, excess electricity is used to compress the air into a salt cavern located underground, typically at depths of 500–800 m and under pressures of up to 100 bars. Diabatic storage systems utilize most of the heat using compression with intercoolers in an energy storage system underground.

How is energy stored in a low demand space?

In low demand periods, energy is stored by compressing air in an air tight space (typically 4.0~8.0 MPa) such as an underground storage cavern. To store energy, air is compressed and sealed in the space. To extract the stored energy, compressed air is drawn from the storage vessel, mixed with fuel, and then combusted. The expanded air is then passed through a turbine.