Secondary use for old mined land related to energy generation and storage

Richard Andrew Fisher, Purdue University

Abstract

Previously mined areas create a set of unique opportunities that may be able to be exploited for the use of bulk energy storage. Southern Indiana contains several areas that may fit the specific basic requirements for energy storage projects. The focus of this study is two sites selected because they have previously undergone surface and underground mining. The use of such areas for industrial or commercial use would open up reclamation processes that go beyond those more traditionally marked for beautification and environmental management. Each possibility for bulk energy storage brings with it its own requirements and inherent complications for site selection. The two possibilities to be explored are underground pumped storage power and compressed air energy storage. Another option involves the possible use of thermal capabilities generated from overlapping water bodies on the surface and underground. Each of these uses for this land would require different characteristics and attributes. To determine which is the best possible use for areas in Southern Indiana a good first step is to consider other systems under construction or in operation around the world. By comparing a set of case studies it is possible to determine which system if any can be best implemented in Indiana. A profile of basic attributes can be created to aid in the future development of systems in similar areas.

Degree

M.S.

Advisors

West, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Geology

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