Maximizing Efficiency in Compressed Air Energy Storage: Insights from Thermal Energy Integration and Optimization

Luca Cacciali (), Lorenzo Battisti () and Enrico Benini
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Luca Cacciali: Fluid Machinery Laboratory, Department of Civil, Environmental and Mechanical Engineering, University of Trento, via Mesiano 77, 38123 Trento, Italy
Lorenzo Battisti: Fluid Machinery Laboratory, Department of Civil, Environmental and Mechanical Engineering, University of Trento, via Mesiano 77, 38123 Trento, Italy
Enrico Benini: Fluid Machinery Laboratory, Department of Civil, Environmental and Mechanical Engineering, University of Trento, via Mesiano 77, 38123 Trento, Italy

Energies, 2024, vol. 17, issue 7, 1-16

Abstract: Motivated by the suboptimal performances observed in existing compressed air energy storage (CAES) systems, this work focuses on the efficiency optimization of CAES through thermal energy storage (TES) integration. The research explores the dependence of CAES performance on power plant layout, charging time, discharging time, available power, and cavern volume. Hence, a range of solutions are examined, encompassing both solid and liquid TES options, alongside the potential utilization of external air heaters. Inefficiencies in solid TES due to significant retention of thermal power within the medium after complete discharge are identified and mitigated through optimization strategies. In addition, solutions to prevent ice formation at the low-pressure expander phase are suggested to avoid icing issues in CAES layouts with liquid TES. Through this comprehensive investigation, the study provides valuable insights into enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of CAES systems. By constructing a volume–power–time conversion table, the research contributes to the advancement of CAES technology, facilitating more efficient energy storage and utilization, thereby addressing critical challenges in the field of energy storage.

Keywords: compressed air energy storage; thermal energy storage; diabatic CAES; adiabatic CAES; D-CAES; A-CAES; TES (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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