In the heart of China’s energy transition, a groundbreaking study led by Hengfei Wei from the National Institute of Clean and Low-Carbon Energy in Beijing is shedding light on the untapped potential of deep underground storage space (DUSS). This research, published in ‘Meitian dizhi yu kantan’ (translated to ‘Modern Geology and Exploration’), is set to revolutionize how we think about energy storage and carbon management.
The world is shifting from high-carbon, polluting energy sources to cleaner, renewable alternatives like natural gas, wind, solar, and hydrogen. However, these low-carbon energy sources come with their own set of challenges, particularly in terms of regional constraints and instability. This is where DUSS comes into play, offering a solution to store and manage these energy sources efficiently.
Wei’s research delves into the historical utilization of DUSS, identifying three major stages of development: the initial phase from 1915 to 1945, the rapid expansion from 1946 to 1998, and China’s recent catch-up and synchronous development from 1999 to the present. Despite a relatively short history of large-scale DUSS utilization, China has made significant strides in developing theories and technologies for constructing layered salt rock reservoirs and underground water reservoirs in coal mines. “China holds the originality and leadership of the theories and technologies for the construction of layered salt rock reservoirs and underground water reservoirs in coal mines,” Wei emphasizes.
The study highlights China’s advancements in constructing underground gas storage (UGS) facilities under complex geological conditions. However, it also points out the need for further development in areas such as hydrogen, helium, and oil storage in salt caverns, as well as CO2 geological storage in saline aquifers. “It is necessary to put more effort into achieving theoretical and technical breakthroughs in hydrogen, helium, and oil storage in salt caverns, as well as CO2 geological storage in saline aquifers,” Wei notes.
The commercial implications of this research are vast. As China aims to achieve carbon neutrality and peak carbon dioxide emissions, the efficient utilization of DUSS will be crucial. Underground storage facilities will support the large-scale development of industries including natural gas, wind and solar power, green hydrogen, and carbon sequestration. This could lead to the construction of underground storage facilities reaching a 100-billion industrial scale, fostering new technologies and industries, and representing significant industrial innovation points for the development of new quality productive forces.
The study underscores the need for enhanced top-level design by the Chinese government and coordination among various departments to optimize resource allocation for DUSS. This coordinated effort could pave the way for a future where DUSS plays a pivotal role in China’s energy landscape, supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy and driving innovation in the energy sector.
As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change and energy sustainability, Wei’s research offers a glimpse into a future where deep underground storage space could be the key to unlocking a cleaner, more efficient energy system. The findings published in ‘Meitian dizhi yu kantan’ provide a roadmap for China and the global community to harness the full potential of DUSS, shaping the future of energy storage and carbon management.
