Research and engineering application progress of energy storage technology for compressed gas integrated energy utilization

Under the “dual-carbon” goals, novel energy storage technologies, particularly compressed gas energy storage, have emerged as a crucial pathway for enhancing the flexibility and reliability of new power systems. This paper systematically constructs a comprehensive analytical framework for compressed gas energy storage technology that spans “principles-systems-equipment-applications”, providing an in-depth and detailed analysis of the theoretical research and practical advancements in this area. Among various gas media, air and carbon dioxide are the most widely adopted, owing to their favorable thermodynamic properties and environmental characteristics. Compressed gas energy storage systems employing them as working fluids have seen relatively advanced development and entered the stage of commercial application. Therefore, the compressed air energy storage (CAES) and compressed carbon dioxide energy storage (CCES) technologies are selected as representatives for detailed examination in this paper. First of all, the paper elaborates on the developmental evolution of typical system design schemes for CAES and CCES, which are primarily designed for electrical energy storage and power generation. Through a comparative analysis of different technological pathways from five key perspectives, including energy storage efficiency, capacity cost, energy storage density, technology maturity and limitation, this paper dissects the advantages of various approaches as well as the challenges they face in engineering applications. Subsequently, the paper further explores and summarizes the application patterns and methodologies of CAES and CCES technologies in integrated energy utilization systems. The design concepts and optimization strategies for combined cooling, heating, and power systems centered on compressed gas energy storage technology are examined, highlighting how integrated design and multi-energy coordination can achieve cascading energy use and improve overall energy efficiency. Such an integrated approach proves crucial for maximizing the value of energy storage within complex, multi-vector energy networks, supporting both grid stability and local energy autonomy. Furthermore, the paper systematically reviews the research progress in design and analysis methods of core components in compressed gas energy storage systems, including compressors, turbines, heat exchangers and gas storage units. Special emphasis is placed on the application value and technical approaches of intelligent methods in optimization design, performance prediction, and fault diagnosis, which represents a significant trend in advancing the reliability and efficiency of system components. Finally, the specific technical pathways for future development in system design, control and maintenance, core equipment, as well as multi-scale dynamic design and multi-scenario cooperative control strategy system are discussed. In conclusion, this paper not only provides a thorough review of the current state of technological research and engineering applications in compressed gas energy storage, but also looks ahead to future key research directions in the field. It is intended to serve as a valuable reference for forward-looking research planning and strategic decision-making in both academic research and industrial development, ultimately contributing to the realization of the “dual-carbon” goals through the widespread adoption of efficient and flexible energy storage solutions.