In 2015, ENERGYNEST installed and commissioned our ThermalBatteryTM pilot with combined capacity of 1 MWhth at the Masdar Institute Solar Platform (MISP) in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The system was operated on a continuous basis, with an energy cycling profile resembling operations in power plants and industrial applications. We have compared the measured performance of the ThermalBatteryTM and HEATCRETE® over several thousand operating hours, and the results show nearly indistinguishable differences between measured and predicted performance. Post-operation analysis verified there was no significant degradation of material or impact on infrastructure integrity.
Collaboration with major companies such as SIEMENS (control systems) and DOW Chemical (HTF), plus technology verification by Masdar Institute and independent third parties including DNV GL and Fichtner validates our ThermalBatteryTM renewable storage system.
“The demonstrated and measured long-term effect of the ThermalBatteryTM system installed and tested at the MISP shows no sign of change in performance, and proves the operational capabilities of the technology and modular ENERGYNEST ThermalBatteryTM design.”
– Dr. Nicolas Calvet, Associate Professor, Masdar Institute of Science & Technology
MAIN FEATURES
The key components of our ThermalBatteryTM include a high-performance type of concrete-like storage material (HEATCRETE®) and steel; the main constituents for the storage material and the steel can be sourced globally. The system simplicity and use of low-cost materials results in very low CAPEX as well as nearly negligible OPEX throughout the lifetime of the ThermalBatteryTM. Typical life time is minimum 30 years and more likely over 50 years.
Energy in the form of heat at high temperature is transferred to the ThermalBatteryTM using a heat transfer fluid (HTF) inside pipes cast into the ThermalBatteryTM elements. There is no direct contact between the heat transfer fluid and HEATCRETE®, and the thermal elements with steel piping are compatible with common HTFs such as thermal oil, water/steam or compressed gas etc., which enable straightforward integration within a wide range of applications.
PUBLISHED RESULTS
The results of the pilot have been published in a peer reviewed article.
More Case Studies
YARA: Steam grid balancing in integrated chemical plant unlocks new energy flexibility
Integrating a 4 MWh ThermalBatteryTM, directly connecting to the steam grid at one of Yara’s international production facilities.
ENI: Balancing CST production helps Eni’s oil refinery go all night
Extending production of solar energy beyond sunset at oil refinery of Eni S.p.A. in Gela. Italy.
TURNHOUT: Balancing CST production gives sustainability boost to adhesive factory
The production unit of Avery Dennison in Belgium is shifting their heat production from natural gas (NG) to Concentrated Solar Thermal (CST).
