What is a zero-carbon energy storage project

Considering all the challenges of operating a zero carbon power system described throughout this paper, the addition of energy storage will constitute one of the main approaches taken to address these challenges. Energy storage helps with the challenge of matching supply and demand in a power system where both vary dramatically.

A zero carbon power system is likely to have far fewer large rotating synchronous machines. Wind turbines, solar photovoltaics and battery storage devices are “asynchronous” devices that connect to the power system through power electronics. As such generators proliferate, the total amount of inertia in the power system will decrease.

A zero carbon power system is likely to need long-duration energy storage, and as yet the only viable form of such storage is pumped-hydro storage. The number of places in which a pumped storage system can be constructed is quite constrained, and alternative long-term storage technologies will need to be found. Sustainability.

A variety of other generation technologies have potential to assist in the transition to zero carbon. These include nuclear energy (including small modular nuclear reactors), and highly efficient and flexible coal or gas generators partnered with carbon capture utilization and storage.

The planning, design, and operation of zero carbon power systems require detailed engineering studies in order to understand the impacts of any change to system performance, reliability, safety, and economics. Properly conceived and conducted studies are a cost-effective way to prevent surprises during operation and to optimize equipment selection.

The transition to zero carbon operation brings many new technologies to power system stakeholders. While well-known technologies such as hydropower, gas, and other forms of generation will continue in the zero carbon power system, many other new technologies, or significant evolutions of older technologies, are appearing.