Novel Energy Storage in a Hybrid Electrochemical Cell

As the US becomes more sensitive to its dependence on foreign sources of liquid hydrocarbons, and the worldwide demand for clean electrical energy continues to grow, the importance of stable and efficient electrical grids will continue to expand. Since grids must release electrical energy the instant it is required, energy storage must provide for both demand and supply peak smoothing, enabling more effective use of renewable sources and reducing generation capacity requirements. Where it is geographically feasible, pumped hydro-generation is currently the method of choice for grid electrical energy storage, having been proven superior to lead acid batteries due to their high maintenance and life cycle cost. As an alternative, this project explores the technical and commercial feasibility of a novel hybrid electrochemical device intended to provide reversible electrical charge storage for both utility and distributed-user grids of the future. The objective is to show that a high temperature electrochemical cell, based on high temperature electrodes and electrolytes, could serve as the basis for an efficient utility-scale electrical energy storage alternative. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: If proven viable, these electrochemical storage units could be charged by tapping the generation of electrical plants during off-peak periods, or as augmented by the intermittent generation of renewable energy plants such as solar and wind. During periods of peak demand, the stored energy could be discharged into the grid. Benefits would include an improved electrical grid operating efficiency, reduction of energy specific carbon emissions, and the creation of high paying ¿green collar¿ manufacturing jobs.