A new technology is changing how countries store clean energy. From now on, solar and wind power can be stored using liquid air. This system helps solve one of the biggest problems in renewable energy: storage when the sun does not shine and the wind does not blow.
To address this issue, engineers liquefy air and store it for later use. When electricity demand rises, the system converts the liquid air back into gas. This process generates power when renewable sources are unavailable.
Near the village of Carrington in the United Kingdom, Highview Power is building the world’s largest commercial liquid air energy storage facility. The project marks a major step in clean energy development. It also shows how innovation can support national power grids.
The system works in several stages. First, machines capture and purify air. Next, machines compress and cool the air until it turns into liquid. Operators store the liquid air in insulated tanks. When electricity is needed, operators heat the liquid air. As it expands back into gas, it drives turbines and produces electricity.
The numbers highlight the system’s potential. The Carrington project can supply power to 480,000 homes. It also offers strong economic benefits. Generating one megawatt of electricity costs about $45 using liquid air. In comparison, hydropower costs around $120, while lithium battery storage costs about $175 per megawatt.
Liquid air technology also has a longer lifespan than conventional batteries. Batteries usually need replacement every ten years. Liquid air systems last much longer and store energy with minimal losses over time.
Experts note that construction costs remain high at the start. However, they believe the technology offers the best alternative to hydropower dams and lithium batteries. Dams require specific geography, while batteries create environmental pollution.
In addition, liquid air storage can strengthen energy security. It helps prevent power outages and supports stable electricity supply. As countries expand renewable energy, liquid air may become a key solution for the future.
