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Long-duration, particle-based, electro-thermal energy storage: a multi-method analysis
Gifford, Jeffrey C.
Gifford, Jeffrey C.
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2023
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2024-10-18
Abstract
Long-duration energy storage technologies have the potential to reduce the cost of electricity primarily supplied by variable renewable energy resources (e.g., wind and solar photovoltaics). One promising technology to fill this need is particle-based electro-thermal energy storage (pETES). This technology is attractive because of its low-cost storage medium, adequate round-trip efficiencies, siting flexibility, and ability to integrate with existing thermal power systems. However, key questions regarding component performance, system design, dispatch, and techno-economic performance potential of this technology are addressed through the development and exercise of three computational tools.
In the first study, a computational fluid dynamics model is developed to analyze the performance of the particle-to-air, heat-addition heat exchangers. A computational fluid dynamics model is developed and benchmarked against experimental data on key performance characteristics at high operating temperatures and pressures. Then, the approach is applied to a patented heat exchanger design. The model indicates low gas-phase pressure drop (i.e., 3.2%) and low approach temperatures (i.e., < 5 degrees Celsius) can be achieved, a significant improvement over existing particle-to-air heat exchangers while costing less. The model shows new gas distributor designs are needed to achieve the desired counterflow behavior between the particle and gas phases.
In the second study, an integrated system model is built that is comprised of benchmarked, reduced-order models of key components. The integrated system model performed transient, annual simulations of the system based on a desired dispatch schedule. The analysis found the system's round-trip efficiency is between 50 and 52% over a range of ambient temperature conditions, dispatch schedules, configurations, and component design or performance parameters.
In the final study, a mixed-integer linear program is developed to optimally size and dispatch a wind-solar-pETES system to minimize the levelized cost of electricity subject to availability, off-design, and start-up constraints. The mixed-integer linear program is solved 7,680 times to capture sensitivity to locations across the U.S., costs of wind, solar, and storage, and availability. The study finds pETES systems can be cost-competitive with other renewable-firming technologies.
The work of this dissertation contributes to the literature by answering key questions about pETES systems while developing tools and methodologies for continued research and development. The results of this dissertation add to the body of evidence that pETES could be a successful long-duration energy storage technology. Developing and deploying cost-effective, long-duration energy storage technology, such as pETES, will prove critical for a successful transition to a carbon-free energy future.
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