Numerical Investigation on a Packed-Bed LHTES System Integrated into a Micro Electrical and Thermal Grid

Abstract

Currently, energy storage systems are considered a key solution when mismatch occurs between energy supply and demand, allowing a more efficient energy deployment and use. The present paper is focused on the study of a latent heat thermal energy storage (LHTES) system based on a packed bed of encapsulated phase change material (PCM) of spherical shape, conceived as an auxiliary component of a micro-grid to be built in a Research Center located in southwestern Sardinia (Italy). The main purpose of this work was to perform numerical simulations for predicting the performance of the TES system, designed to store the surplus thermal energy produced during the weekend by a heat pump fed by a photovoltaic (PV) plant. The stored energy would then be utilized during the weekdays to integrate the air-conditioning system supply. The numerical simulations were based on a one-dimensional (1-D) two-equation transient model, able to return the thermocline profile of the water and the PCM separately. The behavior of the LHTES device during charge and discharge phases was reproduced, as well as during the standby periods. Finally, two characteristic indexes of the PV system were evaluated, to investigate the effect of TES on grid interchanges, self-consumption, and self-sufficiency.

Keywords

• LHTES
• phase change material (PCM)
• thermal energy storage
• packed-bed
• thermocline
• micro-grid