Storage tool
We have provided a tool to analyse different storage technologies in an industrial plant context. This tool models the implementation of any storage technology, provided the relevant parameters are entered.
GSK case study outcomes
This was used to analyse three options of liquid air storage, electrochemical batteries and flow batteries for GSK’s pharmaceutical plant in Irvine. From both technical and economical perspectives, flow batteries proved to be the most suitable option. However, the payback period was around 100 years so not currently feasible. It was also demonstrated that using liquid air storage technology could significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the plant. In one case, the associated net CO2 emissions were reduced by 25%.
The bigger picture
This analysis confirmed what is already known about the current lack of feasibility for implementing large scale energy storage. The project did not focus on any energy management of critical processes of the plant which would be an important study to look at the potential improved viability. Companies seeking a route towards autonomy should ideally combine on-site generation, energy storage implementation and demand management when forming a plan. The hope is that tools similar to the one produced in this project may be improved (including energy management etc) to inform such decisions.
From an economical perspective, financial incentives for plants using energy storage technologies would help to improve their likelihood of becoming viable options.