Large-scale energy storage is an essential but unsolved component of transitioning global electricity generation from fossil fuels to renewable resources, one that will require innovative approaches that could include new technologies involving Earth’s subsurface. Storing energy in geologic rock deep underground, such as by porous media compressed air energy storage (PM-CAES) and by underground hydrogen storage (UHS), offers enormous opportunities to expand utilization of intermittent renewable energy sources such as solar and wind. Also, aquifer thermal energy storage (ATES) can lower energy demand by improving heating and cooling efficiency in buildings and for industrial operations.

Our scientists take advantage of world-class imaging capabilities at Berkeley Lab to understand rock-fluid interactions at micro-to nano-scales that can be used to predict biogeochemical reactions that can occur during subsurface energy storage activities. Additionally, EGD is a world leader in the development and applications of geophysical monitoring techniques, which can improve our understanding of how energy stored underground behaves and functions.