The InnoSolPower project aims to demonstrate a novel concept of an efficient, low-cost, low temperature, high energy density micro-thermal energy storage (μTES) dedicated to concentrated solar power (CSP) systems. The ultimate goal of the project is to develop, test and validate an efficient TES with a higher than ambient heat pump (HP) heat transfer fluid (HTF) inlet temperature achieved with a solar CSP. The new TES will achieve a large TES storage density, minimum response time, highest roundtrip efficiency and cost viability The objectives of the project will be realised through the following steps:
- Selection of high-power density TES material. Proposed HTF is a state of the art, environmentally friendly refrigerant. Water is used as reference TES phase change material (PCM). Final solution is a high power density TES with an optimised HTF and a heat exchanger architecture.
- Testing of main subsystems and components. A novel, efficient rotary arc vane compressor for HP is introduced.
- Integration of the μTES with a CSP plant at a kW-scale and demonstration in a relevant environment.
- Validation of concept in a relevant environment.
- Detailed cost reduction analysis and impact analysis in LCOE.
The project starts from a laboratory (TRL 4) level and the consortium brings the product development to TRL 6 or higher. This cost- competitive thermal energy storage product with superior thermal performance and smaller space requirements is expected to capture a significant market share among the small scale electricity productions applications (autonomous consumers, off grid applications, isolated areas).
More information can be found on the InnoSolPower Project Website.