Performance analysis and optimization of next-generation thermal energy storage

Thermal energy storage can play a very important role in improving energy efficiency and integrating renewable energy into large-scale applications. This paper reviews the different types of TES technologies, their applications, challenges, and future prospects. The work describes the key technical constrains, economic and environment concerns, and political and regulatory frameworks which determine the uptake of TES systems. Issues related to improved materials, optimized systems, and integration with new energy technologies are considered in order to determine the future potentials of TES in sustainable energy solutions. The study finds that despite the high potentials TES technologies offer in energy supply stabilization and improving grid reliability, the technologies have scalability challenges; challenges in cost of materials; and efficiency of systems. Solutions for the challenges required continuous research in advanced thermal storage materials, better system designs, and supportive policy interventions. Some areas recommended for future research include exploration of new storage media, development of high efficiency thermal cycles even for high temperature operations, and hybrid energy systems for improving the performance of TES. This paper also demonstrates the great importance of TES in the sustainable and resilient energy future.