Modeling and optimization of Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES) integrated with renewable energy sources and coupled Thermal Energy Storage (TES)

The growing penetration of variable renewable energy sources (RES), such as wind and solar power, highlights the need for reliable and flexible energy storage solutions to enhance grid stability and minimize energy curtailment. This thesis investigates the modeling and optimization of an Adiabatic Compressed Air Energy Storage (A-CAES) system integrated with RES and coupled with Thermal Energy Storage (TES). The primary objective is to evaluate the operational behavior and performance of the A-CAES system under variable renewable input conditions and to develop an optimization framework for efficient system design and operation. A detailed component-level model of the A-CAES system is developed within software, incorporating thermodynamic and energy balance equations for key subsystems including compressors, expanders, TES units, and cavern storage. The model captures the complex dynamic interactions between the thermal and compressed-air subsystems and their collective role in mitigating the intermittency of RES. The outcomes of this research aim to support the design and operation of cost-effective, renewable-integrated energy storage systems capable of contributing to the stability and sustainability of future low-carbon power systems.