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Evaluating economic feasibility of liquid air energy storage systems in future US electricity markets

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  • Cetegen, Shaylin A.
  • Gundersen, Truls
  • Barton, Paul I.

Abstract

Liquid air energy storage is a clean, long-duration grid-scale energy storage technology, capable of providing multiple gigawatt-hours of storage capacity. Its inherent locatability unlocks nearly universal siting opportunities, making it suitable for diverse geographical contexts. While its technical viability is well-established, a comprehensive assessment of its economic feasibility under evolving market conditions is essential to understanding its potential role in the future energy landscape. This study employs a mixed-integer linear programming model to maximize the net present value of liquid air energy storage systems over their lifespan across 18 US regions under eight distinct decarbonization scenarios. This approach yields conservative estimates of economic viability in projected future electricity markets. The results identify Texas and Florida as the most promising markets for deployment and suggest that a levelized cost of storage of approximately $60/MWh is achievable across all decarbonization scenarios, which is significantly lower than literature-reported values for alternative technologies, such as pumped hydro energy storage and lithium-ion battery energy storage. Additionally, sensitivity analyses reveal the influence of technical performance improvements and economic incentives on feasibility and broader adoption. These insights are critical for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to support long-duration energy storage solutions in a decarbonization landscape.

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  • Cetegen, Shaylin A. & Gundersen, Truls & Barton, Paul I., 2025. "Evaluating economic feasibility of liquid air energy storage systems in future US electricity markets," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 321(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:321:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225010898
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.135447
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    References listed on IDEAS

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