What is Logn Term Energy Storage ?

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LTES (Long Term Energy Storage) refers to technologies capable of storing energy for six hours or more, with some definitions extending to 10+ hours. These systems are essential for balancing the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources like solar and wind, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply even when generation is low.

🧪 Key LTES Technologies

LTES technologies are categorized into five main types:

  1. Flow Batteries
    • Store energy in liquid electrolytes.
    • High scalability and long cycle life.
    • Moderate efficiency (~70–80%).
  2. Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES)
    • Uses electricity to compress air stored in underground caverns or tanks.
    • Air is released to drive turbines when power is needed.
    • Efficiency: ~50–70%.
    • Example: A 300 MW-class CAES facility in China using salt caverns.
  3. Liquefied Air/CO₂ Energy Storage
    • Air or CO₂ is liquefied and stored under pressure.
    • Re-gasified to drive turbines.
    • High energy density and safety.
    • Example: Energy Dome’s CO₂-based storage in Italy and the US.
  4. Thermal Energy Storage (TES)
    • Converts electricity into heat stored in materials like molten salts or rocks.
    • Heat is later used to generate steam and electricity.
    • Lowest cost among LTES options (~$232/kWh).
    • Efficiency: ~50–70%.
  5. Gravity Energy Storage
    • Lifts heavy masses using electricity; energy is recovered by lowering them.
    • High capital cost (~$643/kWh).
    • Long lifespan and low maintenance.

💰 Cost Comparison (2023 Global Averages)

Technology

Cost (USD/kWh)

Gravity Storage

643

Flow Batteries

444

Lithium-Ion Batteries

304

Compressed Air Storage

293

Thermal Energy Storage

232

📈 Market Trends & Adoption

  • Thermal and compressed air storage are the most cost-effective and safe among LTES technologies.
  • Patent activity is rising, especially in flow batteries and thermal storage.
  • Commercialization is accelerating, with full-scale deployment expected within 2–3 years.
  • Government support is growing: the US DOE allocated $286 million for LDES development, including $39 million for demonstration projects.

🌍 Strategic Importance

LTES is crucial for:

  • Grid stability during renewable intermittency.
  • Decarbonization of power systems.
  • Energy security and resilience during peak demand or outages.


Location: India

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