Method and apparatus for using solar energy to enhance the operation of a compressed air energy storage system
US8024928B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 26, 2009 |
| Grant date | Sep 27, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 28, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T10/7072
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The invention relates to a method and apparatus for using solar energy to enhance the efficiency of a compressed air energy storage system (and visa-versa). The apparatus comprises a photovoltaic panel to drive a compressor, which provides compressed air energy into an inner vessel housed within a storage tank. Two solar receiving panels are used to heat water which can be circulated and stored within an annulus surrounding the inner vessel, wherein the heated water can help regulate the temperature of the compressed air within the tank. This way, when air is released using a turbo expander, any excess temperature drops that can otherwise result from air expansion can be avoided. The overall system efficiency is enhanced by the chilled air by-product of the turbo expander which is used to generate more electrical power from an associated fuel-driven generator set, and/or by the waste heat from the compressor and from the generator set exhaust which is used in a Combined Heat and Power system (CHP) to power either a steam-driven generator set or an absorption chiller.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.