This project aims to undertake a small-scale technological investigation in order to determine the suitability of integrating cryogenic energy storage into the re-powering of the Shetland Isles. The technology is known to have a number of advantages over existing advanced battery energy storage solutions in terms of cost, saleability, and the ability to independently size the charging rate, output, and capacity. SSEPD wishes to understand the benefits this technology could provide, how it could utilise the waste heat from the new power station, or link into the existing district heating scheme to effectively produce power from the heat (at times when there is greater wind generation than heating demand).

Objectives

The project consists of an independent review of the Hghview process, along with a high-level review of supply chain and component availability. The test programme design for Highview Pilot Plant at Slough will also be peer reviewed.

The independent review of the Highview cryogenic energy storage system technology will be conducted by Costain, at the request of SSEPD, as the first stage of a development programme, the overall intention of which is to develop a fully engineered design for a cryogenic (liquid air) energy storage project on Shetland. It is anticipated that this project will enable the recovery of power from stored hot water (from a CHP plant) and provide a back-up power load for increased renewable energy sources.

The review will consider the following aspects of Highview technology:

• overall round-trip efficiency;

• efficiency of conversion of heat to power in the temperature range of 75 – 90 °C;

• separation and storage of heat and cold;

• plant operability (including start-up and ramp times), availability and lifetime projections, as well as associated costs;

• supply chain and component availability.