Abstract
CAES technology combines mechanical and thermodynamic forms of energy storage. It can be scaled from local modular units to industrial-scale solutions. Its main advantages include high energy storage capacity, long operation time without recharging, integration potential with solar and wind power plants, and potentially low cost with mass deployment. As the share of renewable energy sources (RES) grows and the need to ensure the resilience of power systems increases, energy storage technologies are becoming strategically important. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of compressed air energy storage (CAES) technology, including comparative evaluation with other storage systems, design features, advantages, and implementation challenges. Special attention is given to the potential of CAES application in the Republic of Kazakhstan, considering its climatic, geological, and economic conditions. The study explores innovative approaches, including thermomechanical CAES, as a promising direction for Kazakhstan. The work also presents research analysis results, identifies key barriers, and proposes measures to overcome them. The article is based on national and international sources, modeling, and expert assessments, and may serve as a foundation for shaping a national strategy for energy storage technology development.