Sustainability by means of cold energy utilisation-to-power conversion: A review

Decarbonising the global energy system involves several critical aspects, such as enhancing energy efficiency, expanding electrification, adopting alternative fuels, and leveraging hydrogen, among other strategies. Cold and cryogenic energy have substantial potential sources, extending beyond liquefied natural gas, as the demand for several alternative fuels and substances continues to grow. This study explores various techniques for harnessing cold energy to generate power, ranging from simple to complex technologies. It conducts a comparative analysis of promising technologies suitable for converting cold and cryogenic energy into power. Furthermore, it provides a detailed performance comparison for each technology and outlines prospects for future development. In the end, the study discusses the potential direction of further research and underscores the increasing significance of integrating cold and cryogenic energy into existing business models and value chains, not only as a means of transportation but also as a source of power generation. Harnessing cold and cryogenic energy as a seasonal Carnot battery presents a compelling and innovative solution. This advanced system offers significant potential, especially when integrated with variable renewable energy sources or waste heat, providing a promising option for enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability.