Oil-inflated gas energy storage

Can depleted oil & gas wells be used for energy storage?

The idea is to use depleted oil and gas wells as a reservoir for the storage of compressed natural gas. As needed, the gas can be released to spin a turbine and generate electricity. The reservoir is recharged using excess electricity from the grid and the cycle repeats, providing a potential solution for the growing demand for energy storage.

Why do we need a long-term energy storage system?

Opportunities are created at the intersection of two important energy problems—the need for large-scale, long-term energy storage systems and effective end-of-life field management of historical oil and gas assets.

Could old oil and gas wells be used for storage?

David Young, a senior scientist at NREL whose expertise lies with solar technology, had a “eureka” moment in coming up with the notion to use old oil and gas well sites for storage. “I was taking a shower and I dreamed up the idea,” Young said.

How long does energy storage last?

After the recovery period, the storage cycle is repeated. In the short term, the process can provide six hours of electricity. For longer, or seasonal, needs, the researchers calculate it can offer90 days of electricity. “Seasonal energy storage is very, very limited,” Young said.

Could depleted oil and gas wells be used as a reservoir?

NREL researchers Chad Augustine (left) and David Young, along with former colleague Henry Johnston, have been examining the idea of using depleted oil and gas wells as a reservoir for the storage of natural gas. The gas can then be released, as needed, to spin a turbine and generate electricity. Photo by Werner Slocum, NREL

Can compressed air be used as energy storage?

If you use CO 2 that could also be part of a carbon capture cycle.”Using compressed air as energy storage requires additional steps, including cooling the air after the compression stage and preheating it before releasing it. Projects using compressed air also can take years to build and cost hundreds of millions of dollars.