Energy Storage in Oregon

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Energy storage is often a problem with renewables. Utility power is designed to meet peak demand. Dams can store water and run 24/7, while coal and gas fired power plants can kick on to meet peak demand - but the sun and wind are not predictable.

The power system requires that generation of electricity perfectly matches the amount consumed at all times but wind farms can create excess power, causing waste or environmental impact or no power when you need it most.

Energy Storage Technologies

Energy can be stored locally (using batteries), but utility companies are looking into large scale storage alternatives such as underground storage of pressurized air, flywheels, or other techniques.

Grid-scale energy storage is a developing interest, since wind power is at the mercy of Mother Nature. Compressed air storage underground is one solution. Three fourths of the United States is said to have geology suitable for underground air storage. Wind turbines can pump air into underground storage, which is then retrieved when additional power is needed.

The Mist Gas Fields are used for both producing natural gas and storing it. The gas is found in relatively shallow pockets (2200 feet) with a solid dome above it and salt water below it. The geology is ideal for gas storage, and Northwest Natural has developed the site to do exactly that. Off peak gas is pumped into the ground during much of the year, and during the seasonal peaks, the compressors are reversed and the gas is recovered to augment regional supplies.

Portland General Electric in the next two years plans to install batteries from Ener1 to supply enough juice to power 400 homes in Salem for about an hour. The Electric Storage Association has more on energy storage technologies.

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