PUSH-CCC Newsletter
Introduction
In a constantly evolving energy landscape, advances in large-scale energy storage are crucial for the transition towards a more sustainable future. During January-March 2026, we have witnessed significant developments in storage technologies, particularly in the field of compressed air (CAES and AA-CAES). These advances not only reflect the results of innovative research but also highlight the need for a regulatory framework to support their implementation. In this context, the PUSH-CCC project continues to lead the way in the research and development of ACAES technologies, contributing to the decarbonisation of Europe.
Key News
1. Nature review on CAES technologies and perspectives
A recent article in Nature examines the potential of CAES, highlighting that large-scale facilities can achieve full-cycle efficiencies of between 50% and 70%. The optimisation of components is essential to compete with other storage solutions.
Read more →2. Waste heat recovery in AA-CAES
A study in the Journal of Energy Storage shows how the integration of heat recovery in AA-CAES systems can boost energy performance, improving economic competitiveness without proportionately increasing costs.
Read more →3. Cogeneration analysis based on AA-CAES
Research published in Energy Science & Engineering suggests that AA-CAES systems can simultaneously supply electricity and heat, improving economic viability by creating additional revenue streams.
Read more →4. CAES as a long-duration solution in the European StoreMore project
The StoreMore project highlights that CAES systems are competitive in long-duration storage, with investment costs ranging between €360 and €900/kW, making them viable compared to other technologies.
Read more →5. Joint letter from the European sector to accelerate long-duration storage
A coalition of energy associations has requested the European Commission for a regulatory framework that supports the deployment of long-duration storage technologies, emphasising their importance for security of supply.
Read more →6. European webinar on scaling flow batteries
The Flow Batteries Europe webinar highlights the growing interest in flow batteries as a large-scale storage solution, emphasising the need for a favourable market framework.
Read more →7. Record 27.1 GWh of battery storage in the EU in 2025
The European Union has installed 27.1 GWh of battery storage capacity, marking a 45% growth compared to the previous year, mainly in grid-scale systems.
Read more →8. Wave of new batteries in Europe and potential future barriers
The expansion of battery storage in the EU could be threatened by regulatory barriers, despite the growing interest and investment in new technologies.
Read more →9. European boost for hydrogen projects and associated storage
The European Hydrogen Bank has allocated funding to projects that strengthen the hydrogen storage infrastructure, which is essential for energy security and the integration of renewables.
Read more →10. Accelerated expansion of European Energy's BESS pipeline
European Energy reports significant growth in its portfolio of battery storage systems, demonstrating the economic viability of renewable projects in saturated markets.
Read more →Closing: The Importance of Long-Duration Storage
Long-duration storage capacity is essential for the decarbonisation of Europe. As renewable energies continue to grow, the need for efficient and economic storage solutions becomes critical. Technologies such as CAES not only present a viable alternative to electrochemical batteries but also contribute to grid stability and the reduction of reliance on fossil fuels. In this context, PUSH-CCC positions itself as a key player in the research and development of technologies that will facilitate the transition towards a more sustainable energy system.