Patent ID: 7155912
Filing Date: 2007-01-02
Classification: F24D,F24S,F28D,G06Q,H02J,Y02E

Abstract:
1. A method of reducing the end-user cost of energy at a predetermined location, comprising: providing an energy storage system comprising at least one tank and compressor capable of storing energy in the form of compressed air energy; locating said system at an end-user site, wherein said end-user is a consumer of energy rather than a supplier; forecasting how much energy will be used at said site during a second period of time, during which the energy cost is at a relatively high second rate; determining the nature and extent of the peak power surges and/or spikes that are expected to occur at said site during said second period of time; storing in said tank a predetermined amount of compressed air energy from an energy source during a first period of time, during which the energy cost is at a relatively low first rate, wherein said first period of time is prior to said second period of time; and using the compressed air energy from said tank in a manner that helps offset the amount of energy used at said site during said second period of time, and offset the peak power surges and/or spikes occurring at said site during said second period of time, such that the surges and/or spikes are substantially reduced or eliminated.