Innovative CO2 Battery Concept
In the pursuit of reliable energy storage solutions for unpredictable renewables like wind and solar power, Italian startup Energy Dome introduces a groundbreaking CO2 battery. Departing from conventional lithium-ion options, this eco-friendly system harnesses carbon dioxide for both storage and power generation.
How the CO2 Battery Works
The CO2 battery stores carbon dioxide in a massive dome during the charging phase. Upon demand, the stored gas is extracted, compressed into a liquid, and stored in carbon steel tanks. The compression process generates heat, stored in ‘bricks’ for later use. When power is needed, the liquid CO2 is heated using the stored heat, turning it back into a gas, refilling the dome, and spinning a turbine to produce electricity.
Advantages Over Traditional Storage Methods
Unlike traditional air storage, CO2 is denser, enabling energy storage in a much smaller space—up to ten times smaller than compressed air. Compared to liquid air storage, which requires extreme cooling, CO2 batteries offer superior affordability. Built with steel, CO2, and water, these batteries boast simplicity, with off-the-shelf components like pipes, compressors, and turbines, contributing to a cost advantage of 50% compared to lithium-ion batteries.
Global Investor Support
At COP28, Bill Gates’ Breakthrough Energy Ventures and the European Investment Bank committed €60mn to Energy Dome, recognizing the game-changing potential of CO2 batteries. This funding will facilitate the construction of a commercial-scale plant in Sardinia, Italy, storing 20MW of renewable energy supplied by local solar and wind farms.
Energy Dome’s founder, Claudio Spadacini, emphasizes the modular and scalable design, making it an attractive option for rapid expansion. The company has already secured a deal with Norwegian giant Ørsted, aiming to commence construction on the first CO2 battery storage facility in 2024.
As environmental concerns surround lithium-ion batteries, CO2 batteries emerge as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative, potentially shaping the future of energy storage.
Source：thenextweb.com
