SPuRM – Storage Potential of Underground Rock Mass

One of the central challenges of the energy transition is to overcome the imbalance between the generation of renewable thermal energy and its consumption. Specifically, high surplus thermal energy is generated in the summer through solar thermal systems and industrial waste heat, while the largest heat demand only occurs in the winter. To prevent the waste of this valuable thermal energy, robust and efficient long-term heat storage concepts are required. The research project SPuRM addresses this necessity by focusing on the development of large-scale thermal energy storage facilities, realized as water-filled caverns or voids in bedrock formations. The goal is to establish the scientific and technical foundations for these storages and to remove the implementation barriers that have blocked previous Austrian exploratory projects.
Specifically, the multidisciplinary project deals with the planning and construction of such storages in representative Austrian geological settings, whereby different geometries and layouts are examined for their thermodynamic efficiency and construction suitability. Additionally, concepts are being developed for the necessary system components required for charging and discharging. A particular focus is placed on environmental compatibility, especially the interaction with groundwater. The findings gathered, considering construction feasibility and associated boundary conditions, will be compiled into a public and free guideline. This guideline will provide interested parties with concrete proposals for the construction, economic viability, environmental compatibility, and risk assessment of rock cavern storage facilities.