The CSIRO/Pacific Power R and D project on using CO{sub 2}/CH{sub 4} reforming for solar energy storage and transmission

The CSIRO/Pacific Power research project on using the reversible CO{sub 2}/CH{sub 4} reforming reaction for solar energy storage and transmission is described. Work to date has led to the development of new and highly effective catalysts which are capable of conducting the forward and reverse reactions in small-scale fluidized-bed reactors under practical reaction conditions without the formation of carbon. Thermochemical energy storage rates of more than 30 MW/tonne of catalyst have been obtained. Thermochemical heat pipes based on CO{sub 2}/CH{sub 4} reforming in both open and closed loop configurations have a range of potential applications in Australia. The technology is suitable for extending the life of natural gas and other energy sources through the production of solar-boosted fuel gas for use in both conventional and advanced power generating technologies. In the longer term, closed loop concepts could find application in a ``Greenhouse-constrained`` society. Technically feasible concepts for linking solar energy with the reformer have been identified and future work will need to focus on, amongst other things, demonstrating this linkage under real solar conditions.