Berne energy storage project plant operation

Is Switzerland able to store energy?

The global challenge is not only to produce more energy from renewable sources, but also to be able to store it. With its hydroelectric power plants in the Alps and innovative projects, Switzerland is contributing to the search for solutions for the efficient, long-term storage of electricity.

What are the main objectives of a thermal energy storage project?

The main objectives of this project are to lower the cost, reducing the risks and to optimize performance of high temperature (~25 to ~90°C) underground thermal energy storage technologies by demonstrating 6 distinct configurations of heat sources, heat storage, and heat utilization.

Are pumped-storage power stations a viable solution for energy transition?

One of the main challenges of the energy transition is to develop systems capable of storing excess energy and returning it when it is needed. Pumped-storage power stations are the most effective and economical solution.

What is a pumped-storage power station?

Pumped-storage power stations are the most effective and economical solution. They allow water to be pumped to a higher altitude when there is an excess energy, and to release generated electricity when there is a shortage. In Switzerland there are about 100 reservoirs for hydroelectric production, and about 15 of them have a pumping system.

Why should thermal energy storage technologies be developed?

CONCLUSIONS Thermal energy storage technologies need to be developed and become an integral component in the future energy system infrastructure to meet variations in both the availability and demand of energy.

What is underground thermal energy storage (Utes)?

Underground thermal energy storage (UTES) provides large scale (potentially >10 GWh) storage capacity per site that is difficult to achieve with other heat storage technologies, and benefits from a typically lower range of storage costs (Persson et al.,2014).