TidAl Range schemes as configurable Grid-scale Energy sTorage facilities (TARGET)

Lead Research Organisation: CARDIFF UNIVERSITY
Department Name: Sch of Engineering

Abstract

Significant growth in the capacity of variable wind and solar generation technologies and inflexible nuclear power stations in UK is crucial to achieving a net-zero electricity system by 2035 and a net-negative electricity system by 2050. Decarbonising the transport sector and a greater reliance on electricity for heating are expected to increase electricity peak demand further. The growing use of variable renewable energy sources for power generation poses several challenges to the operation of power systems, in particular, supply and demand imbalances. Currently, the GB power system relies on significant input from gas-fired and hydro-electric power stations for balancing peak demand. Further, 13 GW of new electricity storage is required by 2030 to balance the 34 - 77 GW of new wind and solar generation. Existing technologies for grid-scale energy storage have their own pros and cons in terms of cost, life cycle environmental impacts, and scalability. Tidal Range Schemes (TRSs) are renewable generation technologies that can also be operated as grid-scale energy storage facilities. This is a unique feature of TRSs which has not been investigated significantly and is the key focus of this project.
TRSs, such as tidal lagoons and barrages, generate renewable electricity by creating an artificial head difference between water levels on the seaside, driven by tides, and water levels inside the basin, controlled by flow through the structure. TRSs have a significant advantage over many other forms of renewable energy generation in that they are based on a highly predictable resource. Electricity generation has been traditionally considered as the primary goal of TRSs and they are mainly designed to maximise electricity generation. However, such schemes - particularly with pumping - can be highly controllable and therefore can be used as energy storage facilities. There are a number of tidal range schemes at different sizes proposed in UK coastal waters, with several other sites being investigated. One of the barriers to TRS development is their relatively high capital cost (but typically connected to a long capital cycle). This leads to a high expected cost of electricity generation. However, operating TRSs as energy storage facilities enables them to increase their revenue through price arbitrage and providing ancillary and reserve services. This consequently makes the TRS business model more financially viable while supporting the operation of the electricity system. The capability of TRSs to function as grid-scale energy storage facilities can be enhanced by new approaches to design and operate TRSs. It is also crucial to consider techno-economic and life cycle environmental impacts of TRSs being utilised as storage facilities compared to other grid-scale storage technologies.
In this proposed project, we will investigate the optimal design and operation of TRSs as configurable grid-scale energy storage. This also includes an economic assessment of the revenue of TRSs when they are utilised as energy storage, and techno-economic and comparative life cycle assessment of TRSs and other common storage technologies in order to provide a better understanding of the potential impacts of TRSs.
The proposed project is formed of 6 work packages which are closely connected. The project team will be working with an Advisory Board to ensure that project will respond to the key challenges related to the utilisation of TRSs as grid-scale energy storage facilities as highlighted in the proposal and benefit a wide range of stakeholders.
 
Description The project has highlighted the impact of two Tidal Range Schemes being operated in a synchronised way on the energy system and potential ancillary services provided by multiple TRSs. The project has also enhanced hydro-environmental models to better investigated the impact of TRS on the surrounding environment. The project team has also developed economic and life cycle assessment models to assess the financial implications of TRSs being used as energy storage and assessing the impact of TRSs when used as energy storage facilities through their life cycle.
Exploitation Route The team has been working closely with British Hydropower Association and Tidal Range Alliance and the findings of the project has informed their policy documents and responses to consultations by the Government.
Sectors Energy

Environment

 
Description While it is too early to assess the impact of the project, the project seems to be on track to deliver expected impact. Our research on tidal range has been supporting range of developers and also been informing the government policy through close collaboration with British Hydropower Association and Tidal Range Alliance. Providing better understanding of the potential role of Tidal Range Schemes (TRSs) in migration to net zero and providing energy security will have significant socio-economic implications. Furthermore, considering the life cycle assessment and hydro-environmental impact of such schemes, the project is targeting to minimise the adverse impact on the environment. Furthermore, by better understanding of supply chain of the industry and suitable economic framework for development of such schemes will enhance their viability and increase their economic benefits.
First Year Of Impact 2023
Sector Energy,Environment
Impact Types Societal

Economic

 
Description Development of Very Low Head Tidal Turbine
Amount £849,997 (GBP)
Funding ID 10072702 
Organisation Innovate UK 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 11/2023 
End 12/2025
 
Description Tidal Range Alliance 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Attending Tidal Range Alliance board as an academic representative.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
URL https://british-hydro.org/tidal-range-hydropower/