Can aluminium redox cycles be used for energy storage?

Aluminium redox cycles are promising candidates for seasonal energy storage. Energy that is stored chemically in Al may reach 23.5 MWh/m 3. Power-to-Al can be used for storing solar or other renewable energy in aluminium. Hydrogen and heat can be produced at low temperatures from aluminium and water.

How much energy can be stored in aluminium?

Energy that is stored chemically in Al may reach 23.5 MWh/m 3. Power-to-Al can be used for storing solar or other renewable energy in aluminium. Hydrogen and heat can be produced at low temperatures from aluminium and water. ≈500 kg Al are needed for a 100% solar PV supplied dwelling in Central Europe.

When will aluminium be used for energy storage?

Although it is possible that first systems for seasonal energy storage with aluminium may run as early as 2022, a large scale application is more likely from the year 2030 onward.

How much did shell invest in MGA Thermal?

From pv magazine Australia Shell has committed approximately AUD 580,000 ($400,000) to MGA Thermal to help finance the construction of a 5 MWh thermal energy storage pilot project. It aims to showcase the potential of the Australian company’s technology to store large amounts of energy as heat over long periods.

What are aluminum redox batteries?

Aluminum redox batteries represent a distinct category of energy storage systems relying on redox (reduction-oxidation) reactions to store and release electrical energy. Their distinguishing feature lies in the fact that these redox reactions take place directly within the electrolyte solution, encompassing the entire electrochemical cell.

Is aluminum a long-term energy investment?

From a transition perspective, aluminum's high recyclability can be considered as a long-term energy investment in the future availability of materials.