zhōng guó中国qǐ dòng启动shì jiè世界zuì dà最大yè tài液态kōng qì空气chǔ néng储能xiàng mù项目
On October 30, 2026, the world’s largest liquid air energy storage project was connected to the power grid in Golmud, Qinghai Province, China, and began supplying electricity.
It can store 600,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity and provide power continuously for up to 10 hours.
Sometimes, the electricity generated by solar and wind power cannot all be used. This project can store the surplus electricity and use it later when there is no sunlight or wind.
How does it store electricity?
First, surplus electricity is used to cool ordinary air to about minus 194 degrees Celsius, turning the air into a liquid that is stored in large insulated tanks.
When electricity is needed, the liquid air is heated again.
The air expands rapidly and drives machines to generate electricity.
The project is also equipped with solar power facilities.
Unlike ordinary batteries, it does not require battery materials such as lithium or special underground space, so it may be suitable for more locations.
However, further study is needed to determine whether construction costs are high, how much electricity is lost during storage, and whether it is cost-effective for long-term use.
This method is expected to help people make better use of solar and wind power and reduce dependence on fuels such as coal and oil.