Hydrostor Inc., a leader in compressed-air energy storage, is preparing to build two major facilities as the need for long-duration energy storage intensifies.
Dan Gearino reports for Inside Climate News.
In short:
- Hydrostor’s first major project, Silver City Energy Storage Centre, will begin construction in Australia in late 2024, followed by Willow Rock Energy Storage Center in California.
- These facilities will help address the need for long-duration storage, critical for filling gaps when wind and solar power are insufficient.
- The Department of Energy recognizes the significance of long-duration storage for decarbonizing the energy grid, aiming to reduce costs by 90% within the decade.
Key quote:
“It’s a very simple system that just uses a hole in rock [plus] air and water.”
— Curtis VanWalleghem, CEO of Hydrostor Inc.
Why this matters:
Long-duration energy storage is the linchpin for a stable, renewable energy grid. Projects like Hydrostor's represent a significant step toward achieving ambitious climate goals by ensuring a reliable energy supply, particularly as reliance on wind and solar energy grows. Read more: Oil and gas production responsible for $77 billion in annual US health damages.
