Possible role of power-to-gas in future energy systems

Energy storage can become increasingly important in energy systems dominated by intermittent renewable energy sources. In this paper, the possible opportunities for power-togas, as long-term storage option, are compared to the opportunities for short-term storage technologies. A simulation is performed to quantitatively address the difference between both storage options. In this analysis, short-term storage is characterized by a relatively high efficiency but low energy storage capacity. Power-to-gas is characterized by a lower efficiency but a higher energy storage capacity. Results indicate that power-to-gas could play a role in future energy systems with a high imposed share of renewable energy, especially when the renewable energy production profile shows a seasonal trend.