Hot thermal storage in a variable power, renewable energy system

Abstract

This thesis outlines the design of a renewable energy heat generation system with thermal storage for DOD facilities. The DOD is seeking to implement an increased percentage of renewable energy systems at its facilities in order to improve energy security and reduce energy costs. The intermittent nature of renewable energy generation, however, presents a major challenge to full implementation. This shortfall can be overcome by targeted facility-scale energy storage that allows for increased use of renewable-only systems. Since a large percentage of the electric energy used in both residential and commercial facilities is for space and water heating, thermal storage is a viable solution. Presented in this thesis is a method for designing, analyzing, and sizing a facility-scale thermal storage system. The results demonstrate thermal storage is a more cost-effective option when compared to alternatives like battery storage. In addition to being cheaper, thermal storage systems are safer, more reliable, and have a longer life cycle.