Results and impacts

Key elements of the impact

The green and digital transition in Europe requires:

  1. Decarbonisation of heating/cooling and electricity sectors through breakthrough technologies.
  2. Large storage solutions for excess electricity generated, for example, through wind turbines and photovoltaic systems.
  3. Storage solutions that are interoperable with the existing grids to utilise the energy infrastructure.
  4. Enabling technologies for renewable energy production, in particular in the Mediterranean area and on islands.

Expected Results

  • A breakthrough energy storage solution based on transcritical CO2 cycle that combines geological storages of CO2 in natural reservoirs and new closed-loop CO2 cycle technology, with their integration at TRL4.
  • Definition of geological availably together with geological system design to guide exploration and feasibility.
  • New component designs and engineering solutions to make the CEEGS concept technological and economically viable. Solve open issues on TCO2/underground storage design.
  • Validation of technical assumptions and complete risk analysis, including social acceptance that fosters decision-making in a stage-gate process.
  • Draft a complete business model and business cases for stakeholders to trigger further public and private investments in the development (TRL 5-7) and demonstration (TRL 7-8) of the CEEGS technology.

Outcomes

  • Full set of technical benchmark data for component and system level as well as interoperability with the grid and renewable energy sources.
  • New knowledge on interface and load change effects on equipment and the CEEGS technology.
  • Knowledge on scale-up and commercialisation of CEEGS components in partnership with companies.
  • Scale up to a CEEGS Demonstration Plant level by engineering solution provider.
  • Full commercialisation of the CEEGS technology and roll out in Spain, Germany, and France.
  • Clear understanding of the process economics and feasibility including CAPEX and OPEX of the CEEGS system for different plant scales and geographical regions.

Impacts

  • Scientific
    Demonstration of integrated CO2 underground storage will significantly increase energy storage operational efficiency. Global advancement of the knowledge on CO2 storage and closed CO2 cycles to stimulate further scientific discoveries.
  • Technological/Economic
    Advance in a low cost-high capacity energy storage, capable of providing dispatchable renewable electricity, hence contributing to a clean energy system that is reliable, affordable and fair. Drive technical innovations at public research institutions and companies. New partnerships, products, and services as well as economic growth of equipment manufacturer, engineering service providers and energy companies across Europe. Triggering of new investments in the technologies. Contribution to the ‘security of supply’ due to grid stabilisation.
  • Societal
    Contribution to informed political decision-making and stimulating public discourse through our profound communication activities. Support of legislative decision-making through scientific evidence. Support of areas where the CEEGS technology will be implemented.
  • Environmental
    Energy storage system for renewables dispatchbility, with low impact materials with safe and permanent storage of larger amounts of CO2 in geological settings.