Session: 07-01: Technoeconomic Analysis of CSP Receivers and Particle Storage Technologies

Paper Number: 141555

141555 - Repurposing an Abandoned Mines for Solar Energy Storage 

Abstract: 

Abandoned mines have posed serious environmental and aesthetic challenges to the communities around them. In this project, we explored an innovative reclamation method to turn mines into more economically beneficial entities by converting them into thermal energy storage (TES) systems. TES is critical for the deployment of renewable energy to manage the variations in the supply and demand of heat for seasonal demands. This research paper studies the economic factors associated with transforming an abandoned coal mine pit into a pit thermal energy storage (PTES) system. The economic consequences of improperly decommissioned mines, coupled with the growing necessity for energy storage provide ample opportunity for innovative storage systems.

The implementation of energy storage systems into abandoned mine infrastructures allows for the mitigation of environmental concerns such as carbon and methane emissions and acid mine drainage. Energy storage systems assist in the repurposing of the land, turning environmentally polluting sites into clean, renewable energy sources. The adaptive application of these abandoned mines supports local communities by transforming unappealing land features, creating many jobs, and further contributing to clean energy objectives.

Economic analysis conducted on the site is composed of three sections; retirement data, repurposing data, and operational data. Retirement data displays the economic loss from the site's previous operations; a culm cogeneration facility. The analysis takes into account jobs lost (31 yearly employees) and the cogeneration facilities' annual revenue. Repurposing data is collected for the new site application, analyzing the capital expenditure and job creation for the construction of the site. Operational data consists of operation and maintenance costs, operational jobs created, total energy generation from the site, and annual revenue for the system.

Repurposing data for the site is formulated using the System Advisor Model (SAM) created by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory Sandia National Laboratory, and IMPLAN Economic Modeling Application. After a general analysis of the data was completed, concerns regarding the economic feasibility of this specific application arose. The production of the site is limited by an existing 69kV power line, allowing for a fraction of the total projected production to be sent to the grid. Schuylkill County has an influx of power plants awaiting grid approval, causing grid congestion within the surrounding area.

Economic analysis conducted for the aforementioned site will allow for further application to abandoned mines and mine pits throughout the United States. Different forms of energy storage, along with different economic climates and industrial demands, will facilitate more optimal conditions for the success of such a site.

Presenting Author: Arash Dahi Taleghani Pennsylvania State University

Presenting Author Biography: Dr. Arash Dahi Taleghani currently serves as a Professor in the John and Willie Leone Family Department of Energy and Mineral Engineering. Dr Dahi’s research interests lie broadly at the intersection of geomechanics and material science with emphasis on energy systems, i.e. innovation in cementing/sealing materials, energy storage, and geothermal systems. He holds B.S. and M.S. degrees in Civil Engineering from Sharif University, Iran in 2001, and a Ph.D. degree in Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin in 2009.

Authors:

Arash Dahi Taleghani Pennsylvania State University