Project Background

NRStor is working in partnership with Hydrostor, Inc. to deploy unique compressed air energy storage (CAES) technology that it is entirely fuel-free and produces zero greenhouse gases. In April 2015, Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Energy Storage in accordance with the 2013 Long Term Energy Plan. In November 2015, the IESO selected NRStor to complete a 1.75 MW CAES project in a salt cavern in Goderich, Ontario. NRStor has partnered with Hydrostor, Compass Minerals, and the University of Waterloo to fulfill this contract.

Storage Technology

Energy storage is a growing field which can offer a number of benefits to the electricity system, including supporting the integration of renewable energy and leveling out demand. NRStor is working with Hydrostor to store electrical energy as compressed air in underground salt caverns. The process takes electricity off the grid during times of excess by compressing air and storing the corresponding heat, and then the air and heat are released to return the electricity when needed. Hydrostor’s technology uses a unique heat transfer process for an operation that is entirely fuel-free.

Site Details

Compass Minerals owns an existing salt cavern in Goderich, Ontario that has been retired from salt production. An environmental assessment has been performed by Golder and Associates with no major environmental risks identified. The site is located in Industrial property zoning on land owned by Compass Minerals. All necessary cavern utilization, and project air and noise permits required by the Ontario Ministries of Natural Resources and Environment will be obtained.All building permits and other interactions will be developed with the Town of Goderich and other local authorities and stakeholders.