Innovative Use of Post-Mining Subsurface Voids for Seasonal Energy Storage

Strategic Insights -

Research from the State Key Laboratory has proposed a novel application for coal mine goaf-based underground reservoir energy storage systems. The study explores the possibility of utilizing the geothermal potential and insulation properties of mined-out coal seams for seasonal energy storage. A numerical simulation method was employed to model the thermal-fluid coupling process, demonstrating the feasibility of storing hot water underground during the winter months for use during the summer. This concept can provide new ideas for the utilization of coal mine goaf areas and serve as a reference for the development and design of new energy storage facilities.

Key Takeaways:

  • The research explores the innovative use of post-mining subsurface voids for seasonal energy storage.
  • A coal mine goaf-based underground reservoir energy storage system was proposed, utilizing the geothermal potential and insulation properties of mined-out coal seams.
  • A finite element model was established to describe the seasonal energy storage process of the underground coal mine reservoir.
  • The model calculation results showed the feasibility of achieving seasonal hot water storage through the underground reservoir.
  • The research results quantitatively analyzed the thermal energy storage and utilization potential of the underground reservoir.
  • The results clarified the feasibility of using coal mine underground reservoirs for cross-seasonal heat storage applications.
  • The study provided new ideas for the utilization of coal mine goaf areas and underground goaf residual spaces.
  • The research results can serve as a reference for the development and design of new energy storage facilities.

Statistics:

  • 10070: The article number of the study "Potential Evaluation of Cross-Seasonal Heat Storage of Coal Mine Underground Reservoir: A Case Study Based on Multiphysics Coupling Numerical Simulation Method".
  • 15(18): The volume and issue number of the journal Applied Sciences, where the study was published.
  • 102211: The postal code of Beijing, People's Republic of China, where the State Key Laboratory of Water Resource Protection and Utilization in Coal Mining is located.
  • 2025: The year when the research was conducted and the article was published.

Sources:

  • Applied Sciences. "Potential Evaluation of Cross-Seasonal Heat Storage of Coal Mine Underground Reservoir: A Case Study Based on Multiphysics Coupling Numerical Simulation Method." 2025,15(18):10070.
  • State Key Laboratory of Water Resource Protection and Utilization in Coal Mining.
  • National Institute of Low Carbon and Clean Energy, Beijing 102211, People's Republic of China.
  • MDPI AG.