One of the largest energy storage projects in Europe is to be completed by 2023 and will bring a 50 MW/250 MWh liquid air energy storage facility to the Manchester, U.K., region.

Armed with a £10 million ($13.2 million) government grant, the Highview Power CRYOBattery system will store enough power for roughly 50,000 homes for five hours. The cryogenic cooling technology turns ambient air into liquid, which can then be used to store and release energy over long periods of time. Air liquefies when cooled down to -196° C and can then be stored in insulated, low pressure vessels. Exposure to ambient temperatures causes rapid re-gasification and a 700-fold expansion in volume, which is then used to drive a turbine and create electricity without combustion.

The cryogenic energy storage system can provide services essential for a robust grid including time shifting, synchronous voltage support, frequency regulation and reserves, synchronous inertia and black start capabilities. Unlike competing long-duration technologies, such as pumped hydro-power or compressed air, the CRYOBattery can be sited just about anywhere with a small footprint.

The elements of the cryogenic energy storage system. Source: Highview PowerThe elements of the cryogenic energy storage system. Source: Highview Power

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