Subsurface Energy Storage in Abandoned Wells
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high capital and operating expenses, as well as environmental impacts, of large-scale industrial battery facilities make them inefficient for storing energy from intermittent renewable sources, which are becoming increasingly necessary to balance cyclic and constant energy demands.
Innovation Solution
An earthen bore energy storage device is created by inserting an outer tubular member and an inner porous tubular member into the earth, with different electrolyte fluids and electrical terminals to facilitate energy storage and connection to the power grid, utilizing an abandoned well or newly drilled bore.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If large-scale industrial battery facilities are used to store energy, then energy storage capacity is improved, but capital and operating expenses increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention utilizes abandoned oil and gas wells that already exist in the ground, eliminating the need to construct new storage facilities. The existing well infrastructure is repurposed for energy storage, significantly reducing capital expenses while maintaining large storage capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention recovers value from abandoned wells that would otherwise be discarded or decommissioned. By repurposing these existing structures for energy storage, the system converts waste infrastructure into a functional energy storage solution, reducing both capital and operating expenses
2Quantity of substance
If large-scale industrial battery facilities are constructed, then energy storage capacity is improved, but land usage and environmental impacts worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from surface-level battery facilities to subsurface energy storage by utilizing abandoned wells extending deep into the earth. This vertical utilization of space eliminates the need for large surface footprints, preserving land for other uses and reducing environmental disruption
Solution Approach 2:
By repurposing abandoned wells that would otherwise be environmental liabilities, the invention converts potential harm into a beneficial energy storage solution, eliminating the need for new land consumption and reducing overall environmental impact
3Adaptability or versatility
If renewable energy sources are used to meet energy demand, then sustainability is improved, but intermittency and reliability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The invention enables energy to be stored in advance during periods of high renewable generation and low demand, then retrieved during periods of low generation and high demand. This preliminary storage action ensures reliable energy supply regardless of renewable intermittency
Solution Approach 2:
The energy storage system maintains continuous energy supply by bridging the gaps in renewable generation. Energy stored during productive periods ensures uninterrupted supply during intermittent periods, maintaining continuous useful action despite source variability
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution provides a cost-effective and environmentally friendly method to store energy by repurposing existing infrastructure, reducing land usage and operational costs while effectively addressing the intermittency of renewable energy sources.
Implementation Method 1
an inner tubular member disposed in the outer tubular member and extending the first distance, the inner tubular member being porous
Implementation Method 2
a first liquid within the outer tubular member and external to the inner tubular member, the first liquid having a first charge; and a second liquid within the inner tubular member, the second liquid having a second charge being opposite the first charge
Data Source
AI summary
An energy storage device is formed in an earthen well and includes an outer tubular member disposed in the well and an inner tubular member disposed in the outer tubular member. Both the inner and outer tubular members may extend the length of the well. The inner tubular member is porous and includes a catholyte fluid disposed therein. The outer tubular member includes an anolyte fluid disposed therein. An anode terminal is located between the inner and outer tubular members and contacts an external surface of the inner tubular member. A cathode terminal is located in the inner tubular member and contacts the inner surface of the inner tubular member.