Advanced Rail Energy and Storage : Analysis of Potential Implementations for the State of West Virginia

The growing introduction of non-dispatchable intermittent energy sources to the electrical grid can cause some additional instability to arise. Energy storage systems can be used to close the gap between power generated and load demanded by either supplying power to the grid when other sources do not meet demand or consume power when demand is lower than supply. An interesting alternative to pumped hydro energy storage has been developed by Advanced Rail Energy Storage LLC which seems to be an ideal fit for the landscape of West Virginia. This study seeks to understand the technology behind the system and identify suitable sites in West Virginia where this technology could be successfully applied and operated. Simulation results are provided for both the general technology and the specific site identified as having great potential.