Thermal energy storage market-oriented background paper

Abstract

Thermal energy storage (TES) technologies and their applications are discussed. The markets and commercialization status and potential are explored. ERDA TES program plans are presented. It is concluded that the only TES systems ready for immediate commercialization are storage water heating and space heating charged with off-peak electricity. All that is needed for commercialization to occur is the introduction of appropriate split electricity rates or load management contracts. In the near-term, solar water heating and space heating, electric utility TES and TES space cooling with off-peak electricity may prove economic. Technology for these systems is available now or will be soon. The most promising of these is TES space cooling for commercial buildings where the economies of scale may make the systems very attractive. Again, electric rate structures must be altered for commercialization to occur. Increasing energy costs and tax incentives will help commercialize solar systems. The systems also must be proven reliable and performance accurately predicted for general market acceptance to occur. More research must be done on seasonal storage, industrial uses of TES, heat battery powered vehicles and solar thermal power for electrical generation to determine their commercial potential. Of these, current estimates for heat vehicles are the most promising, although a prototype has not yet been built and the concept must await development of the Stirling engine. If industrial and agricultural use of TES are shown to be economic, there should be no problems with commercialization as this sector is very cost conscious and tends to have available capital. Solar thermal power for electrical generation does not look economical currently, but needs further study as an inexhaustible energy source.