A U.S. Dept. of Energy document discusses the benefits and challenges of thermal energy storage for commercial buildings.
The document explains how the various types of thermal energy storage technologies work, where their installation is most beneficial, and some practical considerations around installations. Among the benefits are:
- Can integrate with on-site renewable energy
- Can function as a buffer for variable energy generation
- Allows for optimal use of renewable energy
- Adds resiliency for temperature control and occupant comfort
- Allows for integration with other distributed energy resources
Technologies currently available include:
- Ice storage with central chiller
- Ice storage in rooftop unit (RTU)
- Chilled or hot water storage
- Ceramic brick heating storage system
- Phase change storage for commercial refrigeration systems
- PCM ceiling panels/passive storage
- Heat pump water heater (HPWH)
The document also discusses tax incentives for implementation of this technology.
Related Stories
Office Buildings | Feb 8, 2018
The American Psychiatric Association moves into The Wharf
The new office occupies 3 floors at 800 Main Avenue SW.
Wood | Feb 5, 2018
The largest timber office building in the U.S. will anchor Newark, N.J. mixed-use development
Michael Green Architecture is designing the building.
Green | Jan 30, 2018
Welcome to the Jungle: Amazon’s Spheres have opened to employees and the public
The Spheres provide the most unique aspect of Amazon’s downtown Seattle headquarters.
Reconstruction & Renovation | Jan 23, 2018
New co-working space will focus on serving local, African-American youth in Miami
The new space has been dubbed ‘Tribe.’
Office Buildings | Jan 18, 2018
At the ready: spec suites make hard-to-rent office space more attractive
Filling a need for startups looking for quick move-ins.
Office Buildings | Jan 18, 2018
*UPDATED* Amazon narrows list of possible HQ2 locations down to 20 cities
The company expects to invest over $5 billion in construction and grow HQ2 to include as many as 50,000 jobs.
Office Buildings | Jan 3, 2018
Activating the workplace
Here's how active work stations impact how you think, perform, and feel.
Office Buildings | Dec 19, 2017
How do we measure human performance, and what does it mean for the workplace?
There are many new tools and methods that are beginning to look more comprehensively to evaluate organizational well-being.
Office Buildings | Dec 15, 2017
How environmental graphics can inspire culture and creativity in the workplace
Once you secure outstanding talent, how do you keep the creative juices flowing and help employees feel more connected to their company’s culture?
Office Buildings | Dec 14, 2017
San Francisco’s first WELL v1 Certified project has been completed
The space emphasizes WELL’s vital concepts of air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind within the workplace.