Jacobs to Support BaroMar with Long-Duration Underwater Energy Storage Pilot

Jacobs has been appointed by BaroMar, an energy storage innovation company, to develop the preliminary design for a first-of-its-kind underwater large-scale, long-duration energy storage pilot project. Located off the coast of Cyprus, the project addresses the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions by demonstrating the practical application and scalability of new technology that is simple, efficient, cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Leveraging existing, mature technology in power, energy, and marine engineering, combined with the hydrostatic pressure of the seawater, the system aims to achieve relatively low installation costs and the lowest levelized cost of storage (LCOS), with a goal of round-trip efficiency of up to 70 percent. The technology helps address the challenges of relying on intermittent renewable sources such as wind and solar and the significant capital costs of supporting infrastructure. 

“This project requires extensive geophysical, geotechnical and bathymetric surveying, investigation, feasibility studying and permitting for tank installation at deep depths for onshore mechanical and electrical equipment needs,” says Jacobs Vice President Fiachra Ó Cléirigh. "This work underscores Jacobs’ commitment to driving innovation and sustainability across sectors to deliver resilient, carbon free clean energy.”

The basis of the 4MWh pilot project relies on storing compressed air in large rigid tanks that are ballasted on the seabed. The tanks are designed to resist loads imposed by the marine environment as well as the compressed air and hydrostatic water pressure, during both installation and operational conditions.  

“As the world graduates from fossil fuels for its primary energy supply to renewables, there is an equal imperative to deliver cost-effective and low-impact storage solutions. BaroMar’s technology harnesses excess electricity from the grid and stores it safely below the sea’s surface, to be mobilized when needed. With its low capital requirements and minimal maintenance, this is a sustainable, environmentally friendly and scalable solution that will reinforce net zero ambitions, while offering the world secure supply in times of energy crisis or unpredictability,” says BaroMar CEO Yonadav Buber. “Jacobs’ engineering prowess and track record makes them an ideal partner to bring transformational impact to the long-duration energy storage solution space.”

The pilot project in Cyprus, represents a significant advancement in BaroMar's mission to address the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions in Europe and beyond, by demonstrating the practical application and scalability of its technology. 

In 2021, Jacobs established an Office of Global Climate Response and ESG to deliver on the company's commitments to climate change through innovative solutions for its clients across energy transition, decarbonization, adaptation and mitigation, and natural resource stewardship. Since then, Jacobs has engaged with clients on all fronts of the energy transition, including research, planning, feasibility studies, proof-of-concept and pilot programs for renewable energy projects. 

This is another key energy transition project in Jacobs' growing portfolio supporting clients with holistic energy solutions that reduce emissions and enhance reliability at a scalable level for generations to come.