Summary of solar thermal energy storage projects

What is thermal energy storage?

Thermal energy storage provides a workable solution to the reduced or curtailed production when sun sets or is blocked by clouds (as in PV systems). The solar energy can be stored for hours or even days and the heat exchanged before being used to generate electricity .

Why is solar thermal energy storage important?

For regions with an abundance of solar energy, solar thermal energy storage technology offers tremendous potential for ensuring energy security, minimizing carbon footprints, and reaching sustainable development goals. Global energy demand soared because of the economy’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Why do solar collectors need a thermal energy storage system?

Because of the unstable and intermittent nature of solar energy availability, a thermal energy storage system is required to integrate with the collectors to store thermal energy and retrieve it whenever it is required.

How is solar energy stored?

Storage is achieved by using thermal oil or molten salt heated by the solar field and stored in tanks for hours or even days. If the solar field and storage capacity are sufficiently large, operators may dispatch electricity generated by the plant up to 24 hours per day.

What is the difference between concentrating solar power (CSP) and thermal energy storage?

In contrast, concentrating solar power (CSP) plants which supplies thermal energy to the power cycle, obtain yields close to 100% through their combination with thermal energy storage (TES) systems [ 3, 4 ]. Furthermore, the capital cost of TES is lower than mechanical or chemical storage systems [ 5 ].

Why is solar thermal technology important?

For regions with an abundance of solar resources, solar thermal technology is extremely promising for ensuring energy security, minimizing carbon footprints, and ultimately achieving sustainable development goals.