What is compressed air energy storage?

In today’s climate, doing everything possible to reduce energy consumption and increase energy efficiency is a vital cost-saving exercise.

For businesses relying on power generation, of the many ways in which this can be done is through Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES). Compressed air can often be the most common cause of utility efficiency loss but with a compressed air solution, this can be greatly reduced.

In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits that CAES can bring to many businesses, and how these solutions work to save money in the long run.

What is Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES)?

CAES is exactly what it says on the tin, it’s a large-scale energy storage technology in the form of compressed air. The method allows compressed air to be stored in a sealed enclosure, which is reserved and then utilised when required.

It’s essentially a way of having a backup stock of energy, which can then be used to supplement energy usage during high-demand periods. Not only does this work to reduce energy consumption and wastage, but it helps to maintain system stability and allows for continuous operation by effectively managing the energy supply.

How it works

The CAES process involves converting electrical energy into high-pressure compressed air with the help of an air compressor

Air compressors work during times of low electricity demand (off-peak). During this period, the compressor will continuously pump pressurised air into a storage tank to be held there until it’s required. Then, when there is a period of high electricity demand (on-peak), this energy will be released to power the system with the energy it needs.

For the energy to be used, the compressed air is released from the storage tank and heated through the compression process. The high-pressure air then quickly expands and is pushed through the system to deliver the energy required.

Whilst the methodology behind CAES is fairly straightforward, the process requires highly specialised equipment and robust storage tanks that can withstand extreme pressures.

The benefits of Compressed Air Energy Storage

Compressed air systems are critical to many industries such as manufacturing, construction, mining, oil & gas and automotive. They can offer a huge number of advantages to many different applications, both large and small.

Energy savings

Undoubtedly one of the most fundamental benefits that a compressed air solution brings is a reduction in energy consumption, and therefore an increase in the efficiency of system operations and a reduction in costs.

Of course, CAES isn’t 100% energy efficient. The process of compressing and decompressing air does create wasted heat and energy, but the overall impact it brings inevitably results in lower energy output.

In summary, using a compressed air system eliminates the need to accelerate energy production during on-peak times, which makes it a much more cost-effective and energy-efficient solution than operating without one.

Low maintenance

In comparison to other energy production methods such as hydropower plants and chemical battery solutions, CAES requires very little maintenance which in turn, keeps costs down.

High capacity at low cost

CAES can hold a much larger capacity than other energy storage systems. Due to the load capabilities, CAES is the perfect solution for coping with large-scale power needs at times of higher demand.

Increased system stability

Having a supplemental supply of energy allows for more reliable and stable power production, helping the system cope with and adapt to continuous changes in demand.

Improved air quality

Compared to other energy production methods, CAES produces substantially lower CO2 emissions, making it a far more eco-friendly choice.

Bespoke compressed air solutions

Implementing the correct compressed air solution can offer low-cost energy production to a range of different applications, but selecting the right one to handle your requirements can be a challenge.

For best-in-class compressed air energy solutions, Derek Lane & Co has you covered. We support many businesses across the UK to reduce their compressed air energy costs, with bespoke solutions tailored to their requirements.

We have a wealth of expertise in the industry and access to an extensive range of air compressors to suit every need. Our skilled service team are also on hand to carry out monthly, quarterly, annual and emergency compressor maintenance if required.

If you’re looking for a reputable partner for your compressed air energy storage needs, get in touch with us.