Definition:
A storage method that compresses air into underground caverns during periods of low demand and releases it to drive turbines when electricity is needed.
Key Components:
- Air compression system
- Underground storage (salt caverns, depleted gas fields)
- Power generation turbines
Use Cases/Industries:
- Large-scale grid storage
- Industrial backup power
- Renewable energy smoothing
Advantages:
- Can store energy for long durations
- Uses abundant and inexpensive air as the storage medium
- High efficiency when combined with heat recovery
Challenges:
- Requires specialized geological formations
- Lower efficiency compared to batteries or pumped hydro
- Infrastructure costs can be high
Related Terms:
Energy Storage System (ESS), Grid Stability, Frequency Regulation
Example:
The McIntosh CAES Plant in Alabama has operated since 1991, storing up to 110 MW of energy for grid balancing.
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Synonyms:
Air Energy Storage, Pneumatic Storage
