Introduction

As we try to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, the need for more sustainable energy sources is increasing at a rapid pace. Energy storage technology has a critical role to play in this transition. The two most popular energy storage solutions are battery energy storage and liquid air energy storage. Both solutions have their pros and cons, and it is important to understand which one is best suited for your specific requirements. So, without further ado, let's compare the two solutions.

Liquid Air Energy Storage

Liquid air energy storage (LAES) uses excess renewable energy to cool air to its liquid state, which can be stored in tanks for future use. When power is needed, the liquid air is heated, which turns it into gas that powers a turbine to generate electricity. One of the biggest advantages of LAES is its potential to store energy for an extended period, allowing for a more flexible supply of electricity. According to Highview Power, a UK-based company that produces LAES solutions, the technology can deliver round-trip efficiencies of up to 60%.

Battery Energy Storage

Battery energy storage is likely the most well-known energy storage solution. It uses rechargeable batteries to store excess energy, which can be discharged at a later time when required. Battery technology has seen significant advancements in recent years, making it a reliable and efficient solution for storing renewable energy. However, batteries have limited storage capacity compared to LAES, meaning they are more suitable for short-term energy storage needs.

Comparison

Storage Capacity

One of the most significant differences between the two solutions is their storage capacity. LAES can store energy for extended periods, making it a good option for situations where on-demand energy is not necessary. Battery energy storage, on the other hand, can only store energy for short periods, making it a better option for situations requiring immediate energy.

Efficiency

Efficiency is another important factor when comparing the two solutions. LAES has a round-trip efficiency of up to 60%, which means that you lose 40% of the energy during the storage and recovery process. Battery energy storage, on the other hand, has a round-trip efficiency of up to 90%, which means you lose 10% of energy. However, the efficiency of the technology varies depending on various factors, such as storage time and temperature.

Lifespan

The lifespan of the two solutions also varies significantly. LAES can last for up to 30 years, while batteries normally last for 5-15 years. This means that LAES requires less maintenance, making it a more cost-effective option in the long run.

Cost

Cost is a crucial factor in choosing an energy storage solution. At present, LAES is more expensive than battery storage, with costs ranging from $300 to $700/kWh, while batteries can cost between $200 to $400/kWh.

Environmental Impact

LAES has a lower environmental impact compared to battery storage. Batteries contain several toxic materials that pose a significant risk to the environment. Conversely, LAES uses atmospheric air, which is abundantly available and harmless to the environment.

Suitability for Scaling Up

LAES is more suitable for scaling up than battery storage. Although batteries are more accessible, they have limits to how much storage capacity they can handle. LAES solves this problem by providing large-scale storage capacity, which makes it more flexible and adaptable to different situations.

Suitability for Remote Areas

Battery energy storage is an ideal energy storage option for remote areas, as it provides a portable and convenient solution. On the other hand, LAES is more challenging to implement in remote areas due to its size and infrastructure demands.

Conclusion

Both LAES and battery energy storage have their place in the energy industry. The choice of technology will depend on the specific needs of a given project. Although battery storage has significant advantages in terms of efficiency, cost, and ease of implementation in remote areas, LAES is the more suitable option for long-term storage of energy, has a more extended lifespan, is more environmentally friendly, and is more amenable to scaling up.

References

1. Energy Storage Association. (2021). Energy Storage Association. [online] Available at: https://energystorage.org/why-energy-storage/types-of-energy-storage/ [Accessed 1 Jul. 2022].
2. Highview Power. (2022). Highview Power in Grid-Scale Liquid Air Energy Storage. [online] Available at: https://www.highviewpower.com/ [Accessed 1 Jul. 2022].
3. PwC. (2021). PwC. Renewable Energy Storage, BESS and LAES Units Compared. [online] Available at: https://www.pwc.com/mt/en/publications/assets/renewable-energy-storage-bess-and-laes-units-compared.pdf [Accessed 1 Jul. 2022].