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Seasonal Energy Storage with Power-to-Methane Technology
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Seasonal Energy Storage with Power-to-Methane Technology

A special issue of Energies (ISSN 1996-1073). This special issue belongs to the section "D: Energy Storage and Application".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (10 August 2021) | Viewed by 30943

Printed Edition Available!
A printed edition of this Special Issue is available here.

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Attila R. Imre

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Energy Engineering, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, H-1111 Budapest, Hungary
Interests: thermodynamics; energy engineering; supercritical and metastable states; energy storage and conversion; geothermal and waste heat utilization; phase equilibria
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

To have a sustainable society, the need to use renewable sources to produce electricity is inevitable. Due to the fluctuation of some of these sources (wind, solar), utility-scale energy storage has to be used. These fluctuations are wide-ranging, from minutes (passing cloud) to whole seasons (winter/summer solar availability). Short-time storage can be solved (at least theoretically) with batteries, but seasonal storage—due to the amount of storable energy and the self-discharging of some storage methods—is a challenge.

Recently, among the classical long-term storage technologies (such as pumped hydro-storage), novel methods are available. Batteries are better and better with less self-discharge and bigger energy density; therefore, they can be used for seasonal storage, although they cannot cover the total need. Therefore, Power-to-Gas methods (mainly Power-to-Hydrogen, P2H, and Power-to-Methane, P2M) play a bigger and bigger role in the storage mix. In these methods, surplus electricity is used to electrolyze water and produce hydrogen; this hydrogen can be stored and used later to recover electricity. Alternatively, with added carbon-dioxide, it can be turned to methane through chemical or biochemical methods, and subsequently, the methane can be stored and used later to recover electricity. Comparing the two methods, the recovery ratio is better for P2H; nonetheless, loss-free storage and recovery needs special equipment. By contrast, for P2M—being the produced methane in SNG, i.e., synthetic natural gas—existing gas-storage facilities can be used for storage and recovery can be achieved through the existing mature methods (like gas engines). Although the step for electricity recovery is associated with carbon-dioxide emission, the amount of emitted CO2 is equal to the one used for the synthesis; therefore, this technology can also be considered carbon-free.

This Special Issue is dedicated to Power-to-Methane technology. It can be used not only to help seasonal energy storage but also to enrich low-quality biogases and natural gases by turning their CO2 content to methane. P2M technology is now on the verge of full-scale industrial use; therefore, a Special Issue dedicated to this method would be very timely.

Prof. Dr. Attila R. Imre
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • Power-to-Fuel technologies
  • Seasonal energy storage
  • Grid-stability
  • SNG, SynGas
  • Biomethane

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Published Papers (8 papers)

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Editorial

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2 pages, 164 KiB  
Editorial
Seasonal Energy Storage with Power-to-Methane Technology
by Attila R. Imre
Energies 2022, 15(3), 712; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15030712 - 19 Jan 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1600
Abstract
To have a sustainable society, the need to use renewable sources to produce electricity is inevitable [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seasonal Energy Storage with Power-to-Methane Technology)

Research

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17 pages, 6487 KiB  
Article
Development of Stable Mixed Microbiota for High Yield Power to Methane Conversion
by Márk Szuhaj, Roland Wirth, Zoltán Bagi, Gergely Maróti, Gábor Rákhely and Kornél L. Kovács
Energies 2021, 14(21), 7336; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14217336 - 4 Nov 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2072
Abstract
The performance of a mixed microbial community was tested in lab-scale power-to-methane reactors at 55 °C. The main aim was to uncover the responses of the community to starvation and stoichiometric H2/CO2 supply as the sole substrate. Fed-batch reactors were [...] Read more.
The performance of a mixed microbial community was tested in lab-scale power-to-methane reactors at 55 °C. The main aim was to uncover the responses of the community to starvation and stoichiometric H2/CO2 supply as the sole substrate. Fed-batch reactors were inoculated with the fermentation effluent of a thermophilic biogas plant. Various volumes of pure H2/CO2 gas mixtures were injected into the headspace daily and the process parameters were followed. Gas volumes and composition were measured by gas-chromatography, the headspace was replaced with N2 prior to the daily H2/CO2 injection. Total DNA samples, collected at the beginning and end (day 71), were analyzed by metagenome sequencing. Low levels of H2 triggered immediate CH4 evolution utilizing CO2/HCO3− dissolved in the fermentation effluent. Biomethanation continued when H2/CO2 was supplied. On the contrary, biomethane formation was inhibited at higher initial H2 doses and concomitant acetate formation indicated homoacetogenesis. Biomethane production started upon daily delivery of stoichiometric H2/CO2. The fed-batch operational mode allowed high H2 injection and consumption rates albeit intermittent operation conditions. Methane was enriched up to 95% CH4 content and the H2 consumption rate attained a remarkable 1000 mL·L−1·d−1. The microbial community spontaneously selected the genus Methanothermobacter in the enriched cultures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seasonal Energy Storage with Power-to-Methane Technology)
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18 pages, 7243 KiB  
Article
Power-to-Gas and Power-to-X—The History and Results of Developing a New Storage Concept
by Michael Sterner and Michael Specht
Energies 2021, 14(20), 6594; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14206594 - 13 Oct 2021
Cited by 90 | Viewed by 10104
Abstract
Germany’s energy transition, known as ‘Energiewende’, was always very progressive. However, it came technically to a halt at the question of large-scale, seasonal energy storage for wind and solar, which was not available. At the end of the 2000s, we combined our knowledge [...] Read more.
Germany’s energy transition, known as ‘Energiewende’, was always very progressive. However, it came technically to a halt at the question of large-scale, seasonal energy storage for wind and solar, which was not available. At the end of the 2000s, we combined our knowledge of both electrical and process engineering, imitated nature by copying photosynthesis and developed Power-to-Gas by combining water electrolysis with CO2-methanation to convert water and CO2 together with wind and solar power to synthetic natural gas. Storing green energy by coupling the electricity with the gas sector using its vast TWh-scale storage facility was the solution for the biggest energy problem of our time. This was the first concept that created the term ‘sector coupling’ or ‘sectoral integration’. We first implemented demo sites, presented our work in research, industry and ministries, and applied it in many macroeconomic studies. It was an initial idea that inspired others to rethink electricity as well as eFuels as an energy source and energy carrier. We developed the concept further to include Power-to-Liquid, Power-to-Chemicals and other ways to ‘convert’ electricity into molecules and climate-neutral feedstocks, and named it ‘Power-to-X’at the beginning of the 2010s. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seasonal Energy Storage with Power-to-Methane Technology)
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13 pages, 1729 KiB  
Article
Seasonal and Multi-Seasonal Energy Storage by Power-to-Methane Technology
by Kristóf Kummer and Attila R. Imre
Energies 2021, 14(11), 3265; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14113265 - 2 Jun 2021
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4057
Abstract
The time-range of applicability of various energy-storage technologies are limited by self-discharge and other inevitable losses. While batteries and hydrogen are useful for storage in a time-span ranging from hours to several days or even weeks, for seasonal or multi-seasonal storage, only some [...] Read more.
The time-range of applicability of various energy-storage technologies are limited by self-discharge and other inevitable losses. While batteries and hydrogen are useful for storage in a time-span ranging from hours to several days or even weeks, for seasonal or multi-seasonal storage, only some traditional and quite costly methods can be used (like pumped-storage plants, Compressed Air Energy Storage or energy tower). In this paper, we aim to show that while the efficiency of energy recovery of Power-to-Methane technology is lower than for several other methods, due to the low self-discharge and negligible standby losses, it can be a suitable and cost-effective solution for seasonal and multi-seasonal energy storage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seasonal Energy Storage with Power-to-Methane Technology)
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21 pages, 2055 KiB  
Article
Disruption Potential Assessment of the Power-to-Methane Technology
by Gábor Pörzse, Zoltán Csedő and Máté Zavarkó
Energies 2021, 14(8), 2297; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14082297 - 19 Apr 2021
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2814
Abstract
Power-to-methane (P2M) technology is expected to have a great impact on the future of the global energy sector. Despite the growing amount of related research, its potential disruptive impact has not been assessed yet. This could significantly influence investment decisions regarding the implementation [...] Read more.
Power-to-methane (P2M) technology is expected to have a great impact on the future of the global energy sector. Despite the growing amount of related research, its potential disruptive impact has not been assessed yet. This could significantly influence investment decisions regarding the implementation of the P2M technology. Based on a two-year-long empirical research, the paper focuses on exploring the P2M technology deployment potential in different commercial environments. Results are interpreted within the theoretical framework of disruptiveness. It is concluded that P2M has unique attributes because of renewable gas production, grid balancing, and combined long-term energy storage with decarbonization, which represent substantial innovation. Nevertheless, empirical data suggest that the largest P2M plants can be deployed at industrial facilities where CO2 can be sourced from flue gas. Therefore, a significant decrease of carbon capture technology related costs could enable the disruption potential of the P2M technology in the future, along with further growth of renewable energy production, decarbonization incentives, and significant support of the regulatory environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seasonal Energy Storage with Power-to-Methane Technology)
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14 pages, 2238 KiB  
Article
The Potential Role of Power-to-Gas Technology Connected to Photovoltaic Power Plants in the Visegrad Countries—A Case Study
by Gábor Pintér
Energies 2020, 13(23), 6408; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13236408 - 4 Dec 2020
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2222
Abstract
With the spread of the use of renewable sources of energy, weather-dependent solar energy is also coming more and more to the fore. The quantity of generated electric power changes proportionally to the intensity of solar radiation. Thus, a cloudy day, for example, [...] Read more.
With the spread of the use of renewable sources of energy, weather-dependent solar energy is also coming more and more to the fore. The quantity of generated electric power changes proportionally to the intensity of solar radiation. Thus, a cloudy day, for example, greatly reduces the amount of electricity produced from this energy source. In the countries of the European Union solar power plants are obligated to prepare power generation forecasts broken down to 15- or 60-min intervals. The interest of the regionally responsible transmission system operators is to be provided with forecasts with the least possible deviation from the actual figures. This paper examines the Visegrad countries’ intraday photovoltaic forecasts and their deviations from real power generation based on the photovoltaic power capacity monitored by the transmission system operators in each country. The novelty of this study lies in the fact that, in the context of monitored PV capacities in the Visegrad countries, it examines the regulation capacities needed for keeping the forecasts. After comparing the needs for positive and negative regulation, the author made deductions regarding storage possibilities complementing electrochemical regulation, based on the balance. The paper sought answers concerning the technologies required for the balancing of PV power plants in the examined countries. It was established that, as a result of photovoltaic power capacity regulation, among the four Visegrad countries, only the Hungarian transmission system operator has negative required power regulation, which could be utilized in power-to-gas plants. This power could be used to produce approximately 2.1 million Nm3 biomethane with a 98% methane content, which could be used to improve approximately 4 million Nm3 biogas of poor quality by enriching it (minimum 60% methane content), so that it can be utilized. The above process could enhance the viability of 4–6 low-methane agricultural biogas plants in Hungary. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seasonal Energy Storage with Power-to-Methane Technology)
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21 pages, 1995 KiB  
Article
Seasonal Energy Storage Potential Assessment of WWTPs with Power-to-Methane Technology
by Zoltán Csedő, Botond Sinóros-Szabó and Máté Zavarkó
Energies 2020, 13(18), 4973; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13184973 - 22 Sep 2020
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3083
Abstract
Power-to-methane technology (P2M) deployment at wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) for seasonal energy storage might land on the agenda of decision-makers across EU countries, since large WWTPs produce a notable volume of biogas that could be injected into the natural gas grid with remarkable [...] Read more.
Power-to-methane technology (P2M) deployment at wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) for seasonal energy storage might land on the agenda of decision-makers across EU countries, since large WWTPs produce a notable volume of biogas that could be injected into the natural gas grid with remarkable storage capacities. Because of the recent rapid increase of local photovoltaics (PV), it is essential to explore the role of WWTPs in energy storage and the conditions under which this potential can be realized. This study integrates a techno-economic assessment of P2M technology with commercial/investment attractiveness of seasonal energy storage at large WWTPs. Findings show that a standardized 1 MWel P2M technology would fit with most potential sites. This is in line with the current technology readiness level of P2M, but increasing electricity prices and limited financial resources of WWTPs would decrease the commercial attractiveness of P2M technology deployment. Based on a Hungarian case study, public funding, biomethane feed-in tariff and minimized or compensated surplus electricity sourcing costs are essential to realize the energy storage potential at WWTPs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seasonal Energy Storage with Power-to-Methane Technology)
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Review

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27 pages, 3311 KiB  
Review
Past, Present and Near Future: An Overview of Closed, Running and Planned Biomethanation Facilities in Europe
by Máté Zavarkó, Attila R. Imre, Gábor Pörzse and Zoltán Csedő
Energies 2021, 14(18), 5591; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14185591 - 7 Sep 2021
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3509
Abstract
The power-to-methane technology is promising for long-term, high-capacity energy storage. Currently, there are two different industrial-scale methanation methods: the chemical one (based on the Sabatier reaction) and the biological one (using microorganisms for the conversion). The second method can be used not only [...] Read more.
The power-to-methane technology is promising for long-term, high-capacity energy storage. Currently, there are two different industrial-scale methanation methods: the chemical one (based on the Sabatier reaction) and the biological one (using microorganisms for the conversion). The second method can be used not only to methanize the mixture of pure hydrogen and carbon dioxide but also to methanize the hydrogen and carbon dioxide content of low-quality gases, such as biogas or deponia gas, enriching them to natural gas quality; therefore, the applicability of biomethanation is very wide. In this paper, we present an overview of the existing and planned industrial-scale biomethanation facilities in Europe, as well as review the facilities closed in recent years after successful operation in the light of the scientific and socioeconomic context. To outline key directions for further developments, this paper interconnects biomethanation projects with the competitiveness of the energy sector in Europe for the first time in the literature. The results show that future projects should have an integrative view of electrolysis and biomethanation, as well as hydrogen storage and utilization with carbon capture and utilization (HSU&CCU) to increase sectoral competitiveness by enhanced decarbonization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seasonal Energy Storage with Power-to-Methane Technology)
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