Liquid air energy storage system with oxy-fuel combustion for clean energy supply: Comprehensive energy solutions for power, heating, cooling, and carbon capture

Abstract

Liquid air energy storage systems have garnered significant attention in the energy storage sector because of their high energy density and geographical independence. However, despite their substantial potential for improving renewable energy-based systems, their commercialization is hindered by their low round-trip efficiency. Furthermore, dependency on other thermal systems and environmental challenges remain unresolved, despite efforts to address these limitations. This study proposes an independent liquid air energy storage system that offers effective energy solutions, including the ability to provide power, heating, and cooling with improved efficiency and sustainability. Moreover, in-depth assessments of the energy, exergy, economic, and environmental performance were conducted. Under rated conditions, the system delivers 118.19 MW of power, 38.64 MW of heating, and 81.07 MW of cooling, achieving a round-trip efficiency of 80.56 %. Additionally, the system generates nitrogen as a by-product, providing further economic benefits. An economic analysis revealed that it yields a net present value of $636.51 million and an internal rate of return of 25.67 %. Environmentally, the system uses an oxy-fuel combustion method to capture 99.997 % of carbon dioxide emissions from natural gas combustion without consuming additional energy. These findings will contribute to the future development of sustainable and eco-friendly energy supply systems.