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Title: An Assessment of second-generation compressed-air energy-storage concepts

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/5273339· OSTI ID:5273339

The Pacific Northwest Laboratory (PNL) conducted an assessment of the adiabatic compressed air energy storage (CAES), hybrid CAES, CAES with coal gasification, and CAES with pressurized fluidized bed combustion concepts based on information provided in conceptual design studies. The PNL assessment covered consideration of the technological readiness, relative economic benefits, and operational viability of each concept. It was concluded that the adiabatic CAES concept appears to be the most attractive candidate for utility application in the near future. It is operationally viable, economically attractive compared with competing concepts, and will require relatively little additional development before plant construction can be undertaken. It was estimated that a utility could start the design of a demonstration plant in 2 to 3 years if research regarding thermal energy storage system design is undertaken in a timely manner. The hybrid CAES concept should also be considered as a candidate for early application. It is similarly operationally viable and close to readiness; however, it is less economically attractive. The hybrid CAES concept has a more favorable charging ratio, which may increase its attractiveness in comparison to adiabatic CAES for some utilities.

Research Organization:
Battelle Pacific Northwest Labs., Richland, WA (United States)
DOE Contract Number:
AC06-76RL01830
OSTI ID:
5273339
Report Number(s):
PNL-3978; ON: DE82019513
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English