Energy Storage Science and Technology ›› 2025, Vol. 14 ›› Issue (9): 3636-3647.doi: 10.19799/j.cnki.2095-4239.2025.0160

• Technical Economic Analysis of Energy Storage • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Multi-dimensional application and development paths of compressed air energy storage technology

Chuanqi XIN(), Wenquan WANG(), Wei CHEN, Lianwu ZHOU, Jiqin LIU, Kai XIE, Jinbiao AN, Tao MA, Haotian XIONG   

  1. PipeChina Engineering Technology Innovation Co. Ltd. , Tianjin 300450, China
  • Received:2025-02-22 Revised:2025-03-08 Online:2025-09-28 Published:2025-09-05
  • Contact: Wenquan WANG E-mail:xinchuanqi@pipechina.com.cn;wangwenquan@pipechina.com.cn

Abstract:

With the ongoing transformation of the global energy structure and the advancement of "dual-carbon" goals, compressed air energy storage (CAES), as a clean, efficient, and large-scale energy storage technology, has become a crucial support for facilitating grid integration of renewable energy and establishing new power systems, attracting widespread attention. This paper reviews the development background, demand, historical evolution, and construction status of CAES technology by analyzing recent related studies. The working principle, technical classifications, and gas storage methods of CAES are thoroughly analyzed. Furthermore, its multi-scenario applications on the power generation side, grid side, and user side are summarized. The challenges and bottlenecks faced by CAES technology are also discussed. The analysis indicates that CAES plays a vital role in all three aspects—power generation, grid operation, and end-user applications—yet it faces challenges related to efficiency, cost, environmental impact, and market-based revenue models. Through technological innovations, such as the development of high-efficiency core equipment and the implementation of intelligent scheduling systems, CAES performance can be significantly improved. Model optimization, including the integration of virtual power plants and the promotion of shared energy storage models, can further expand its applications. Additionally, ecological collaboration and international cooperation, involving the establishment of industry standards and the promotion of technology exchanges, can enhance the global influence of CAES. These measures will enable CAES technology to play a greater role in future energy transitions. Future development should focus on the localization of high-temperature thermal storage materials, multi-technology integration, enhancement of policy support, and internationalization of technical standards. These advancements will support the large-scale development of CAES and the decarbonization of the energy industry, contributing to energy security and the realization of the "dual-carbon" goal.

Key words: compressed air energy storage, energy transition, technical challenges, multi-dimensional applications, development paths

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