Integrated Energy Storage Research Articles

Comprehensive analysis of waste heat recovery and thermal energy storage integration in air conditioning systems

The proposed work aims to address the challenge of effectively recovering and storing wasted heat in air conditioning (AC) systems, which is crucial for improving energy efficiency and system stability. This study focuses on the comprehensive analysis of a Waste Heat Recovery (WHR) system integrated with Thermal Energy Storage (TES) tanks. A lumped-dynamic thermal model was developed and validated against literature data to accurately simulate the system’s performance. Through a detailed parametric study, the research explores how factors like WHR effectiveness, TES type, PCM type, and TES volume influence the system. The results demonstrate that recovering and storing wasted heat from AC systems significantly enhances operational stability and performance. Notably, increasing WHR effectiveness from 0.55 to 0.85 extends the duration of constant thermal power recovery and also results in higher recovered water temperatures with reduced water pump energy consumption. Furthermore, latent heat storage (PCM tank) extends the duration of stable thermal power recovery by over 61 % compared to sensible storage. Using PCM RT 44HC is more effective for WHR in AC units compared to RT 50 and RT 54HC. Finally, it was shown that increasing PCM tank volume from 2 to 4 m3 improves the duration of constant thermal power recovery by up to 52 % while stabilizing the recovered water temperature.

Energy Storage Integration for Renewable Energy Supply in Malaysia: A Review

Malaysia intends to increase the share of renewable energy (RE) in its installed power capacity from the current 23%, or 8.5 GW, to 40%, or 18.0 GW, by 2035. Renewable energy sources, specifically solar and biogas, are unpredictable and subject to sudden changes due to weather conditions and feedstock availability. Furthermore, their integration with the current conventional plants is complicated. In relation to this, deploying energy storage has become the main agenda under the Renewable Energy Roadmap to achieve 40% installed capacity by 2035. When selecting the most adequate energy storage system, the technological, environmental and economic aspects need to be considered. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to review the current state of energy storage and the renewable energy situation in Malaysia. The significance of this paper is that it encourages RE consumption in Malaysia in parallel with the government’s target due to the deployment of energy storage in the energy supply system. It can serve as a guideline for policymakers in their penetration of the renewable energy sector.

Resilience-centered optimal sizing and scheduling of a building-integrated PV-based energy system with hybrid adiabatic-compressed air energy storage and battery systems

This study investigates the economic and resilience co-optimization of a decentralized hybrid energy system (HES) within scenarios involving limited energy sources and a hybrid energy storage solution. The HES is comprised of a building-integrated Photovoltaic (PV) system incorporating an adiabatic compressed air energy storage (A-CAES) and batteries, with the main grid, serving as a backup. A two-stage sizing-scheduling model is proposed to optimize the configuration, minimize lifetime costs, and enhance both long and short-term resiliency while achieving an optimal schedule. The charging/discharging transition time of A-CAES is also adopted in the operational model. The results indicate a substantial annual resiliency improvement of approximately 41.1 %, with optimal sizing and energy storage integration. Additionally, they highlight the cost-effectiveness of the PV/A-CAES system while emphasizing the higher self-sufficiency achieved by the PV/A-CAES/battery system, attaining an electrical load management ratio of 47.3 % and a PV self-consumption rate of 96 %, a 6 % improvement over HESs with individual A-CAES. Furthermore, it is presented that under an optimal operational condition, even with the highest PV power availability during grid interruptions, HES relying solely on individual A-CAES could meet 94 % of the load demand. Integrating a fast-response battery enhances this resiliency to 100 %, effectively reducing PV-power curtailment, particularly during grid interruptions and A-CAES transitions.

Operation optimization in large-scale heat pump systems: A scheduling framework integrating digital twin modelling, demand forecasting, and MILP

The integration of large-scale heat pumps and thermal energy storage can facilitate sector coupling, potentially lowering heating and cooling costs in industries and buildings. This cost reduction can be extended by optimizing the utilization of the available thermal energy storage capacity in accordance to fluctuating electricity prices. Although the literature offers methods for optimizing the operation of these integrated systems, they often overlook the impact of heat pump performance degradation over time, such as from fouling. This oversight can lead to suboptimal system performance and inaccurate operational cost estimates. The present study addresses this gap by introducing a novel operational scheduling framework that aimed to reduce the operational costs of a commercial large-scale heat pump system. The system comprised an open cooling tower, a thermal storage tank and two heat pumps affected by fouling. The framework incorporated a mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) model, thermal demand forecasting, and heat pump performance maps that account for varying fouling levels. These maps were obtained from online calibrated simulation models used as digital twins of the heat pumps. The results demonstrated that the proposed framework enhanced the thermal energy storage utilization in response to variable electricity prices and adjusted the heat pump operation based on the influence of fouling. This resulted in a reduction of operational costs of up to 5% compared to the conventional operation of the system. These savings were observed to vary depending on the forecasting accuracy and the prevailing fouling levels. Overall, this study demonstrates the potential of using the proposed framework for cost reduction in large-scale heat pump systems.

Life Cycle Assessment and Costing of Large-Scale Battery Energy Storage Integration in Lombok’s Power Grid

Life Cycle Assessment and Costing of Large-Scale Battery Energy Storage Integration in Lombok’s Power Grid

Compact Energy Storage Devices Developed from Waste-Derived Electrodes via Facile Recycling Technology

Indeed, the development of sustainable and renewable energy technologies is a critical aspect of addressing the challenges posed by pollution and climate change. Electrochemical energy storage devices, such as batteries and supercapacitors, play a crucial role in this transition by enabling the efficient storage and utilization of energy. The mention of nanomaterials-based electrodes highlights a fascinating area of research and innovation. Nanomaterials offer unique properties and advantages due to their small size, high surface area, short-diffusion path, rapid kinetics, enhanced conductivity, making them highly desirable for energy storage applications.Recycling waste to electrodes in compact energy storage device represents a particularly exciting frontier. Integrating energy storage into advance technology can enhance the portability and convenience of power sources, especially in the context of emerging technologies like wearable electronics and smart devices. However, challenges such as scalability, cost-effectiveness, and environmental impact must also be addressed to ensure the widespread adoption of these technologies. The emphasis on carbon-based nanomaterials, including graphene, carbon quantum dots, and activated carbon, as electrode materials is noteworthy. These materials show promise not only as negative electrodes but also as positive electrodes when combined with metal oxides, hydroxides, or sulphides, demonstrating their versatility in energy storage applications. Additionally, the innovative use of waste recycling, such as tires, shoots, and dry cells, for extracting carbon aligns with the broader goal of creating an eco-friendly environment. The focus on developing carbon-based electrodes from recycled waste for energy storage devices is commendable, as it not only addresses environmental concerns but also contributes to the creation of stable and efficient energy storage systems. In conclusion, this work on the generation of efficient carbon-based electrodes (graphene derived from different waste materials) for energy storage devices, showcases a multidisciplinary approach that considers both environmental sustainability and technological advancement. This research has the potential to contribute significantly to the ongoing efforts to create a more sustainable and efficient energy landscape.Key words: Recycling, Electrochemical, Carbon, Metal oxides, Energy storage, Compact devices

Urban energy transition: Sustainable model simulation for social house district

Energy communities (EC) play a crucial role in driving the transition towards renewable energy sources within urban areas. This study focuses on the implementation of EC within linear mass housing in Rome, with particular attention given to the Tor Bella Monaca district. The research proposes and simulates six energy community distinct scenarios using the Urban Modelling Interface (UMI) and Simulink in order to advance understanding of this topic. These scenarios evaluate the integration of photovoltaic systems, heat pumps, and energy storage systems to determine their comprehensive effect on renewable energy production, CO2 emission reduction, and the enhancement of self-consumption. The study findings show that higher electrification levels in an energy community lead to greater consumption of renewable energy and reduced reliance on the grid. The integration of heat pumps and energy storage further enhances energy consumption and self-sufficiency creating sustainable energy models in urban environments. With an increase in self-consumption factor and self-sufficiency factor of 0.15–0.30 and 0.11–0.13, respectively, depending on the scenario. The research highlights the importance of a thorough assessment of technology sizing and integration in order to enhance self-consumption and decrease CO2 emissions. It proposes investigating the incorporation of both thermal and electrical storage to optimize self-consumption. Finally, the simulated scenarios underwent flexibility analyses to determine the precise energy flow capacity and the optimal setting identified through economic evaluation.

Adaptation of Triboelectric Nanogenerators to the Integrated Energy Storages by a Textured Multi‐Segment Structure

AbstractHigh‐level voltage and extremely low current are the main characteristics of Triboelectric Nanogenerators (TENGs). Despite TENGs, their Integrated Energy Storage (IES) units like supercapacitors and battery units require low‐level voltage and a high amount of current for self‐charging power applications. Using proper materials with higher triboelectric charge density is the most common approach to enhance the output current of TENGs. However, this approach alone does not satisfy the requirement of the integrated energy storage units, in which a relatively low voltage along with a sufficiently high current is needed. Consequently, alternative approaches such as employing a power management circuitry have been proposed. This paper introduces a technique based on the texture of multiple TENGs with identical small surface areas to adapt the TENGs to their IESs, specifically tailored for wearable electronics. Some experiments are conducted to evaluate the merits and limitations of the proposed approach. The experimental and analytical results are thoroughly analyzed to show the capabilities and restrictions of the method.

Policy Evaluation and Enhanced Operational Strategies for PV-Linked ESS in Korea: Practical Applications and Insights from Real-World Data

With the intensification of the global commitment to renewable energy, South Korea’s rapid expansion in renewable capacity necessitates efficient operational strategies to address the inherent variability of these energy sources. Despite the implementation of policies aimed at integrating energy storage systems (ESS) with renewable generation, such as providing additional renewable energy certificates (RECs), the measures undertaken remain relatively ineffective. Thus, this study evaluates the shortcomings of existing policies and proposes an innovative operational strategy tailored to Korea’s energy landscape. The strategy is implementable immediately using existing facilities, without requiring any new equipment, and facilitates profits of up to 12.45% greater compared with those generated using the original approach. Moreover, the results are nearly as effective as an ideal scenario wherein the PV generation and system marginal price are accurately known. Additionally, the decreased economic feasibility of ESS owing to the discontinuation of subsidies is highlighted and solutions are proposed to mitigate the problem. This underscores the urgent need for improved regulatory measures and enhanced operational strategies. The proposed approach highlights the potential to considerably reduce inefficiencies and operational costs, thereby contributing to more sustainable energy management practices within Korea.

Simultaneous sizing and energy management of multi-energy Virtual Power Plants operating in regulated energy markets

This research analyses the case of a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) in regulated electricity markets, trading energy with the consumers and the grid under a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). The VPP propagates the deployment of solar PVs while balancing its intermittency with a dispatchable power plant, which is assumed in this research to be a CCHP, supplying cooling, heating, and power. The VPP also integrates energy storage systems for a comprehensive assessment. Traditionally, the VPP concept has not been introduced in regulated markets, but it is widely researched in deregulated markets where VPPs trade energy with the electricity grid for profit maximisation. In regulated markets, a special architecture is proposed for a VPP that mediates between residential compounds and electricity grids for profit maximization and energy demand coverage, thus converting the compound into a power generator with minimum dependence on the grid for its energy demand. In the literature on aggregated energy systems in regulated markets, it is usually overlooked to perform detailed energy modelling and optimisation on an hourly level. Only basic rule-based frameworks for energy management are proposed. In this research, it is initially assumed that since the VPP integrates multi-energy components supplying heating, cooling and electricity, optimization of the output of each component for a common profit maximization, is necessary. However, in VPP-related literature, the capacity of each component, which is a main input for energy modelling, is traditionally assumed and not assessed. Therefore, the research aims to explore how to find the optimal capacity configuration of the residential VPP that achieves optimal profit. The paper analyses an iterative exhaustive search framework, integrating the 2-levels of energy optimisation (hourly profit maximisation objective) and capacities optimisation (Life cycle CAPEX & OPEX minimisation). Compared to baseline cases, where only energy optimisation is performed, and capacities are assumed and not assessed in terms of capital investment, the proposed framework achieved a higher annual profit by 3.1 % and a payback period of 11 years. The results also provide comprehensive 3D charts drawing the relations between the achieved profit against capacities configurations, thus allowing high-level decision-making. The results also prove the hypothesis that hourly energy optimisation should not be performed without investment cost assessment and that targeting the minimization of investment costs will indirectly benefit the achieved profit.

Controlling Output Power to Enhance the Investment Efficiency of Wind Farms by Maximizing the Capacity of Transmission Transformers and Integrating Energy Storage Systems

Controlling Output Power to Enhance the Investment Efficiency of Wind Farms by Maximizing the Capacity of Transmission Transformers and Integrating Energy Storage Systems

Integrating insulated concrete form (ICF) with solar-driven reverse osmosis desalination for building integrated energy storage in cold climates

This research addresses the pressing global challenges of clean energy and water supplies, emphasizing the need for sustainable solutions for the building sector. The study integrates Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems with building energy systems, incorporating Solar Thermal Collectors (STC)/Photovoltaic Thermal (PVT), water-to-water heat pumps, and an Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) based building foundation wall thermal energy storage. It explores the effectiveness of four configurations—STC-ICF, STC-ICF-RO, PVT-ICF, and PVT-ICF-RO—using sensitivity analysis on collector area (25 % and 50 % increase) and weather data from four Canadian cities: Winnipeg, Toronto, Halifax, and Vancouver and two non-Canadian cities: Helsinki, Finland and Bergen, Norway. Key outcomes highlight the benefits of integrated RO scenarios, such as reduced ICF wall temperature, diminished unwanted heat in the cooling season, reduced RO pump consumption, and enhanced solar energy production. The STC-ICF-RO and PVT-ICF-RO systems achieved energy savings of 653 kWh and 131 kWh, respectively, compared to their non-integrated RO counterparts. Both systems also contributed to lowering CO2 production levels. The STC-ICF-RO system's payback period is 2 years, affirming its economic viability. Compared to the base system without ICF and RO integration, the STC-ICF-RO and PVT-ICF-RO configurations reduced energy consumption by 20 % and 32 %, respectively. The sensitivity analysis suggests potential system improvements under specific conditions, primarily when implemented in communities of buildings.

Self-rechargeable aqueous Zn2+/K+ electrochromic energy storage device via scalable spray-coating integrated with marangoni flow

Electrochromic batteries (ECBs) represent a novel integration of energy storage and optical modulation technologies, offering versatile applications from smart windows to portable electronics. This work explores the potential of zinc-ion (Zn2+) electrochromic batteries utilizing tungsten trioxide (WO3) as an active material. To address research gaps, the study focuses on coating techniques and hybrid ion electrolytes to enhance performance and sustainability. Spray coating with ethanol solvent demonstrates superior uniformity and film quality compared to de-ionized water, attributed to Marangoni flow effects. Moreover, hybrid Zn-K electrolytes show enhanced electrochromic and electrochemical performance, offering higher ΔT (50 %) modulation and cyclic stability (10000 s). Theoretical analysis confirms the favorable interaction of K+ ions with WO3. Prototype ECB devices exhibit exceptional cyclic stability (3000 cycles), rapid self-charging capabilities (10 min), and reversible optical modulation (40 %), showcasing the potential for sustainable energy storage solutions in smart electronics.

Optimizing quasi-dynamic wireless charging for urban electric buses: A two-scenario mathematical framework with grid and PV-battery systems

This paper presents a mathematical optimization framework for the strategic placement of quasi-dynamic wireless charging (QWC) stations within road networks to address the charging needs of battery electric buses (BEBs). This study evaluates two scenarios for powering the buses. In the first scenario, a grid-connected system is considered. The optimization aims to minimize annual costs related to capital, operation, and energy losses of the electric bus fleet. This involves determining the optimal locations for QWC stations, the length of power transmitters, and the corresponding battery capacities for the BEBs. Using MATLAB-based optimization tools Casadi and Yalmip, with solvers Bonmin and Fmincon, the optimal configuration includes a 13 kWh battery capacity and a 300 m power transmitter distributed across five bus stop areas. The second scenario employs a chance-constrained optimization approach for an isolated solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery energy storage system (BESS). This system is designed to reliably meet the BEBs' energy requirements throughout the day, considering different seasonal data (winter, summer, all seasons/year-round). The optimization results for the PV and BESS capacities vary with the seasons: 394.247 kW and 2012.6 kWh using summer data, 1762.1 kW and 2738.2 kWh using winter data, and 1610.8 kW and 2741.9 kWh using year-round data. Additionally, the paper examines the impact of varying bus fleet sizes on the optimal battery size and power transmitter combination using a real-world example of the bus route between Khalifa City and Abu Dhabi Downtown in the UAE. The findings suggest that larger batteries with fewer or no charging stations are more economical for smaller fleets. Conversely, as the fleet size increases, a combination of smaller battery sizes and a greater number (and length) of QWC (power transmitters) becomes more cost-effective. This research offers significant insights into the efficient deployment of QWC stations and the integration of renewable energy and energy storage for sustainable urban electric bus networks. The proposed optimization models provide a systematic approach to designing and operating charging infrastructure, contributing to sustainable urban transportation systems. Moreover, the study highlights the influence of seasonal data on PV system sizing and costs.

Research and economic evaluation on novel pulse superconducting magnet power supply topology with energy storage for fusion devices

Large capacity fusion devices power supply poses a significant challenge to the stability of power grid, as it can lead to power outages and jeopardize the safety of fusion devices. And traditional distribution methods result in a significant waste of resources. This paper proposes novel topologies with integrated energy storage. In these topologies, high-amplitude pulsed power is supplied by the energy storage devices, while low-amplitude stable power is obtained from the grid. This decouples the pulsed power from power grid, and significantly reducing its impact. Moreover, it can reduce the design capacity of distribution equipment and lowers investment costs. To optimize the deployment of the energy storage device, a hybrid topology is proposed, which further reducing the cost of the novel power supply. Additionally, a cost model for the fusion power supply is developed and validated using simulation data from ITER. Through the case study shows that the HEPS topology saves more than 10 % of the investment cost and about 60 % of the annual operating cost compared to the traditional converter topology.

Control of Grid-Connected and Standalone Microhydraulic Turbine Using a Six-Phase Induction Generator

Microhydraulic turbines offer a promising solution for decentralized energy production, suitable for both grid-connected and standalone applications, due to their compactness and high efficiency. This paper introduces a control approach for such systems employing microhydraulic turbines as distributed generators (DGs), utilizing six-phase induction generators for electricity production. This study emphasizes control strategies for both grid-connected and standalone modes utilizing proportional-integral (PI) controllers. An integrated energy storage system based on Li-Ion battery technology is also implemented to store the excess energy and compensate for production deficits to meet demand. The results obtained using MATLAB/Simulink demonstrate efficient and reliable power management among production sources, the grid and the local load, highlighting the unique contribution of employing a six-phase induction generator with the energy storage system.

Integrating Energy Storage Technologies with Solar Cells for Enhanced Sustainability

Integrating Energy Storage Technologies with Solar Cells for Enhanced Sustainability

Adaptive hybrid energy system for remote Canadian communities: Optimizing wind-diesel systems integrated with adiabatic compressed air energy storage

This study addresses gaps in the integration of compressed air energy storage (CAES) with wind-diesel systems in remote areas, departing from previous research that mostly focused on diesel engine efficiency. Critical factors such as CAES sizing, design, and operation are thoroughly examined through a comprehensive analysis, including power supply–demand patterns and full-year system performance. Utilizing Kangirsuk, an Inuit village, as a case study, the research introduces a novel optimization-based sizing strategy for a small-scale adiabatic CAES (A-CAES) system integrated into a wind-diesel power plant. The study contributes by providing insights into power supply–demand patterns, proposing an optimization strategy for adaptive hybrid energy systems, and evaluating the performance of CAES systems over a year. Results show significant diesel fuel reductions, with a 55% reduction in diesel consumption for a single wind turbine with a CAES system, and an even greater reduction of 63.4% when employing two wind turbines with a CAES system. The diesel fuel savings are determined for oversized CAES systems, indicating that oversizing can improve the system’s diesel fuel independence up to 65.3%, albeit at a higher cost. The capital costs associated with achieving these reductions are $5,088,000 for the 55% reduction, $8,020,000 for the 63.4% reduction, and $11,520,000 for the 65.3% reduction. The cost-effectiveness analysis reveals that while oversizing contributes to enhanced fuel savings, the associated expenses need to be carefully considered in balancing diesel fuel independence gains against economic investment.

Analysis on integration of heat pumps and thermal energy storage in current energy system: From research outputs to energy policies

This paper presents a comprehensive examination of the integration of heat pumps and thermal energy storage (TES) within the current energy system. Utilizing bibliometric analysis, recent research trends and gaps are identified, shedding light on the evolving landscape of this dynamic field. The study delves into the research outputs since 1969, offering insights into the global scholarly contributions shaping the discourse. Furthermore, an extensive policy analysis is conducted, focusing on seven countries with the highest research output. The interplay between research advancements and energy policies is explored, providing an understanding of the practical implications of the integration of heat pumps and TES. An understanding is tried to reach as how research and policy sector influence each other. This analysis contributes not only to the academic understanding of the subject but also informs policymakers about potential pathways for enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability in heating and cooling sector.

Fast-Charging Carbon Fiber Structural Battery Electrodes Using an Organic Polymer Active Material

Structural batteries require electrodes with integrated energy storage and load-bearing properties. Adoption of structural batteries can lead to mass and volume savings in electrified transportation and aerospace applications by storing energy within the object’s structural elements. However, to date, active materials investigated in structural batteries exhibit poor rate capabilities at higher C-rates and even worse performance at lower temperatures due to diffusion limitations. Organic radical polymers are promising alternatives because they possess fast-charging properties and good cycling stability. In this work, we integrate an organic radical polymer with carbon fiber (CF) fabric, in which the polymer acts as the active cathode material and the CF fabric possesses excellent tensile strength, modulus and electronic conductivity. At 20 °C, the structural cathodes exhibited a reversible capacity of 67 mAh g−1 at 1C-rate and an 88% capacity retention at 25C-rate. Further, these structural electrodes retained more than 50% of their performance at −10 °C (vs 20 °C). These electrodes were further examined in a full cell containing a graphite-based anode, demonstrating a pathway for utilizing redox-active polymer-based active materials in structural and fast-charging organic batteries.