Why is chemical energy storage important?

Chemical energy storage in the form of biomass, coal, and gas is crucial for the current energy generation system. It will also be an essential component of the future renewable energy system. With each facility ranging in the terawatt-hours, chemical energy storage has by far the largest capacity.

How does chemical storage work?

Depending on how it is stored, it can be kept over long periods and is not seasonally dependent like pumped hydro. Chemical storage can add power into the grid and also store excess power from the grid for later use. Alternatively, many chemicals used for energy storage, like hydrogen, can decarbonize industry and transportation.

Why is energy stored in other chemical forms?

But, energy is also stored in other chemical forms, including biomass like wood, gases such as hydrogen and methane, and batteries. These other chemical forms are key enablers for decarbonization of our electric grid, industrial operations, and the transportation sector.

What can chemical energy storage scientists do for PNNL?

Chemical energy storage scientists are working closely with PNNL’s electric grid researchers, analysts, and battery researchers. For example, we have developed a hydrogen fuel cell valuation tool that provides techno-economic analysis to inform industry and grid operators on how hydrogen generation and storage can benefit their local grid.

Why do we need a chemical energy source?

These other chemical forms are key enablers for decarbonization of our electric grid, industrial operations, and the transportation sector. Hydrogen and other energy-carrying chemicals can be produced from diverse, domestic energy sources, such as renewable energy, nuclear power, and fossil fuels.

What are chemical energy storage materials?

Moreover, pure or mixed gas fuels are commonly used as energy storage materials, which are considered as chemical energy storage materials. The key factors for such kinds of chemical energy storage materials are as follows: Large density; Easy to store and transport; Compatible to the existing infrastructure;