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Thermodynamic and economic analysis of LNG-LAES and LNG-LCES systems: A comparative study

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  • Zhang, Jinya
  • Wang, Chenchen

Abstract

Given the lack of comparative analysis in existing LNG cold energy coupling technology studies, we conduct thermodynamic and economic analyses of LNG cold-energy coupled Liquid air energy storage (LNG-LAES) and liquid carbon dioxide energy storage (LNG-LCES) to address the complexity in industrial project selection. With charging pressures from 5 to 21 MPa, we compare cold energy utilization, round-trip efficiency, exergy efficiency, and economic feasibility. Results show that LNG-LAES has lower LNG consumption, which decreases as pressure increases, while LNG-LCES has superior cold energy recovery. LNG-LAES has higher round-trip efficiency (76.38 % vs. 74.46 % at 16 MPa) and exergy efficiency (64.2 % vs. 58.01 %). Economically, LNG-LAES has a shorter payback period (14.02 vs. 16.88 years) and higher NPV ($18.77 million vs. $12.46 million), with similar LCEO (∼$0.101/kWh). This comparative analysis provides valuable insights into the selection and application of LNG cold energy coupling technologies in industrial projects.

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  • Zhang, Jinya & Wang, Chenchen, 2025. "Thermodynamic and economic analysis of LNG-LAES and LNG-LCES systems: A comparative study," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 324(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:324:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225016895
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.136047
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