The Columbia Energy Storage Project at Energy Dome in Pacific, Wisconsin, is implementing a unique approach to energy storage using carbon dioxide. In collaboration with Alliant Energy, a U.S. energy supplier, the primary goal of the project is to provide energy storage for up to 24 hours, which greatly exceeds the typical 4-hour capability of lithium-ion battery systems.
Innovative CO2 Technology
The system relies on supercritical CO2, which is a compressed, liquefied version of carbon dioxide. This closed-loop method captures and stores CO2, subsequently converting it into electricity by allowing the gas to expand through a turbine. Once this process is complete, the CO2 is sent back to storage, making the system highly efficient and reusable. This innovation tackles the difficulty of managing energy output from variable sources such as wind and solar, thereby enhancing the integration of renewable energy into the power grid for a more sustained period.
Recognition and Funding
In 2022, Bloomberg NEF recognized Energy Dome’s project through its Pioneers program for its advancements in low-carbon technology, drawing the interest of the U.S. Department of Energy. In July 2024, the Energy Department awarded $7 million in funding to assist with Phase I of the project, which will concentrate on planning and community outreach over the next 16 to 22 months. This funding forms part of a broader initiative aimed at fostering the growth of renewable energy.
Future Prospects
Alliant Energy anticipates that the Columbia Energy Storage Project will help to stabilize fluctuations in renewable energy production, furthering its commitment to increasing renewable energy capabilities. The project is notable as the first of its kind in the U.S., marking a significant step forward for long-term, carbon-based energy storage solutions.
