Increasing the Capacity Factors of Base Load Generating Facilities by Storage of Electrical Energy in Aquifers as Compressed Air

Abstract

This paper sets out the advantages of using “off-the-shelf” equipment to produce an effective Compressed Air Energy System (CAES) and to develop the storage parameters of those geological entrapments that can be pressurized with air for the generation of electrical energy on demand. The long lead time and the developmental cost needed to perfect turbo-machinery for aquifer storage has been a deterrant on the utilities in their desire to implement air storage in aquifers. Off-the-shelf hardware and predesigned turbo-machinery specified herein is readily adaptable to aquifer storage parameters and can be manufactured without the expense and uncertainty related to developmental hardware. Hence, normal equipment manufacturer’s assurances and guarantees are available for these applications. When compared to the alternative storage opportunities such as; pumped hydro, battery storage and superconducting magnetic storage, the cost of compressed air storage in aquifers is a fraction of the first cost of these alternatives and as good or better in operating costs.