Hybrid power compressor technologies

A trend is emerging from the larger compressor manufacturers as they explore alternative energy sources for compressed air systems.

The evolution of compressor power sources driving sustainability

Rising energy costs, the red diesel duty reform, and the Clean Air Strategy to Ultra Low Emissions Zones are making compressed air compressor manufacturers adapt to provide more energy efficient and lower emission solutions. The government's clean air strategy sets out how it intends to go 'further and faster' than the EU, in reducing exposure to particulate matter pollution. The government estimates that its proposals will reduce the costs of air pollution to society by £1 billion a year by 2020, rising to £2.5 billion a year from 2030.

What will a sustainable compressed air system look like?

Compressors are emerging which run off Lithium-ion Energy Storage Systems – these offer good energy storage for their size and can be charged/ discharged many times in their lifetime. They are already used in a wide variety of consumer electronics and are also used in electric cars. So it isn't too big a stretch to imagine a solar powered lithium-ion Energy Storage Systems, providing energy to a variable speed air compressor which consumes less energy. This would be supported by mains electric supply, should the battery bank need topping up. Thus, a facility can save a chunk of money with lower energy bills in the long term.