compressed-air energy storage
Credit: Wayne S. Grazio/Flickr

Compressed-air storage moves toward commercialization

Hydrostor Inc., a leader in compressed-air energy storage, is preparing to build two major facilities as the need for long-duration energy storage intensifies.

Dan Gearino reports for Inside Climate News.


In short:

  • Hydrostor’s first major project, Silver City Energy Storage Centre, will begin construction in Australia in late 2024, followed by Willow Rock Energy Storage Center in California.
  • These facilities will help address the need for long-duration storage, critical for filling gaps when wind and solar power are insufficient.
  • The Department of Energy recognizes the significance of long-duration storage for decarbonizing the energy grid, aiming to reduce costs by 90% within the decade.

Key quote:

“It’s a very simple system that just uses a hole in rock [plus] air and water.”

— Curtis VanWalleghem, CEO of Hydrostor Inc.

Why this matters:

Long-duration energy storage is the linchpin for a stable, renewable energy grid. Projects like Hydrostor's represent a significant step toward achieving ambitious climate goals by ensuring a reliable energy supply, particularly as reliance on wind and solar energy grows. Read more: Oil and gas production responsible for $77 billion in annual US health damages.

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