Abstract

The integration of compressed air energy storage (CAES) and wind energy offers an attractive energy solution for remote areas with limited access to reliable and affordable energy sources. This thesis presents a design approach for an energy system comprising wind turbines, CAES, and diesel generators to satisfy the electricity demand in remote communities. This thesis proposes a bi-level programming (BLP) approach enabling the simultaneous optimization of the size and operation of the system while considering the interaction between them. Detailed mechanical design and configuration of the CAES system are considered, including the number and size of compressors and turbines, valves, recuperator operating conditions, etc. In contrast with conventional CAES systems, operating once a day for peak shaving, the proposed CAES system aims to mitigate wind fluctuations. Therefore, its operation is different from conventional CAES systems, and it would operate under partial load conditions most of the time, and as a result, the system's off-design modeling is also considered. The findings of this thesis indicate that the proposed system is a promising, cost-effective, reliable energy solution for remote areas, significantly decreasing the average daily total cost and CO2 emissions by 69% and 76%, respectively. Additionally, by studying the system's performance under both design and off-design conditions, it is concluded that considering the off-design conditions is critical to ensure a more realistic performance of the system as the system is less likely to utilize the CAES in low charging and discharging opportunities.