Novel mechanical energy storage methods

Abstract

This thesis serves as a literature review on the current state of novel mechanical energy storage systems. An increased demand in energy storage exists due to intermittent energy production from renewable sources. The focus of the thesis is on grid-scale storage systems which store produced electricity in the form of mechanical energy. This work introduces several novel storage methods, presenting their working principle, comparisons to current technology, and a realistic analysis of market prospects. Technologies highlighted include storing energy in the sea (STENSEA), solid mass gravity energy storage (GES), liquid air energy storage (LAES), floating liquid-piston accumulator using seawater under compression (FLASC), buoyancy energy storage technology (BEST), and advanced rail energy storage (ARES). GES and LAES are emerging technologies with large-scale applications and competitive cost of stored electricity. ARES is a new application of an established technology being tested on the market. BEST, FLASC, and STENSEA are promising storage methods for the emerging market of offshore storage, all currently in the research and development phase. Depending on the maturity of each technology, the possibilities for grid incorporation are examined.