Advanced Compressed Air Energy Storage (A-CAES)

A developer of utility-scale energy storage facilities that can be sited using its proprietary Advanced Compressed Air Energy Storage (A-CAES) technology and purpose-built underground storage caverns. A-CAES is unique as a grid storage solution: it provides low-cost bulk long-duration storage like pumped hydro but has the key ability to be flexibly sited where the grid needs it, allowing the targeting of high-value (and immediately available) grid applications like transmission deferral and fossil plant replacement. The A-CAES technology works by using electricity from the grid to run an air compressor producing heated compressed air. The heat is extracted from the air stream and stored for later use on discharge. The cooled compressed air is then sent underground and stored in a cavern, which can be either pre-existing or purpose-built to suit system requirements. When the grid requires dispatchable energy capacity, the air is brought back to the surface, re-collects the stored heat, and is expanded through an air turbine to generate power on demand.

The facilities represent a pivotal advancement in long-duration energy storage and a world first in the successful commercialization of fuel-free (adiabatic) CAES technology. Entirely fuel-free, the facilities produce zero greenhouse gas emissions, and helps enable a cleaner, more affordable, and more flexible electricity grid.

Working closely with our client partner, TWD provided assistance with preliminary engineering, detailed engineering, commissioning, start up and optimization performance of four Advanced Compressed Air Energy Storage (A-CAES) facilities ranging in size from 2MW to 800MW. The facilities are located in Goderich, Ontario, Lennox, Ontario, Morro Bay, California, and New South Wales, Australia. Detailed engineering work, including construction, commissioning, and optimization, has ensured the seamless operation of the facilities. Additionally, our preliminary engineering efforts involved preparing Final Investment Decision packages for independent project financing, highlighting our commitment to financial viability. Commercially contracted to Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO), our project has become an essential component of the energy landscape.

Our corrosion investigation services, risk assessments, and hazard investigations showcase our dedication to maintaining the integrity and safety of the Goderich facility. The comprehensive engineering design improvements, conceptual control philosophy, water treatment strategy, capital cost estimates, and preliminary 3D modeling demonstrate our meticulous approach to optimizing every aspect of the project. Obtaining and reviewing budgetary quotes from Siemens further underscore our commitment to transparent and informed decision-making in pursuit of a 300MW clean energy solution.

“The successful commissioning and optimization of the Goderich facility was an extremely important effort. TWD really stepped up with a team that helped us co-ordinate our efforts and troubleshoot issues in an effective and timely manner. TWD also integrated well with our team which was a key element that contributed to our mutual success on this effort.”

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