Preconditions for a Wind-Geothermal Energy Storage system, a case study from Poland

Wind turbines may frequently experience shutdowns despite favourable wind conditions due to several factors, primarily related to grid stability and market dynamics. When electricity generation exceeds demand, particularly during periods of high renewable output, operators may be required to curtail production to prevent grid overload. This situation can lead to significant energy waste, as the turbines are unable to contribute to the grid despite their capacity to generate power.

The Power-to-Heat and Underground Thermal Energy Storage (UTES) concepts enhance the utilization of surplus renewable energy sources to generate heat, which can then be stored and used for various applications, including district heating and industrial processes. By integrating wind energy with geothermal resources, these systems can effectively store excess electricity generated during peak wind conditions, converting it into thermal energy for later use. This approach not only addresses the intermittent nature of wind power but also leverages the stable and consistent characteristics of geothermal energy.

This study explores the preconditions for implementing a wind-geothermal energy storage system tailored to the resources and environmental landscape of Poland. The analysis includes existing wind farms and examines the strategic placement of wind turbines across the country, highlighting regions with optimal wind potential as identified in various meteorological assessments. The northern parts of the country exhibit the highest onshore and offshore wind potential; however, this is not aligned with the geothermal resources available.

Furthermore, a detailed mapping of both shallow and deep geothermal potential will be presented, which is critical for effectively integrating geothermal energy into the proposed storage system. The study considers Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage (ATES) systems, which could enhance energy efficiency and stability in conjunction with wind energy production, serving as a Power-to-Heat example.

By synthesizing data on wind potential, existing infrastructure, and geothermal resources, this study aims to outline a framework for developing a sustainable and resilient energy storage solution. The research is conducted using publicly available spatial data and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to ensure comprehensive analysis and visualization of the relevant resources.