Thermal Energy Storage for HVAC Systems

Thermal energy storage (TES) systems shift cooling energy use to non-peak times, saving money on electric bills by avoiding peak demand charges. All TES systems function by chilling water, freezing phase-change materials, or making ice in an insulated tank during evening or morning hours. This stored coolness is then used for space conditioning during hot afternoon hours, using only circulating pumps and fan energy in the process. The result is a reduced demand for electricity during the period when rates are highest. The variety of stored cooling equipment available today makes it possible to use this technology in virtually any type of building. Although thermal energy storage may not necessarily reduce a building's overall energy consumption, it will significantly reduce on-peak demand and lower overall energy expenses. Thermal Energy Storage Technology In a TES system, a storage medium is chilled during periods of low cooling demand, and the stored cooling is used later to meet air-conditioning load or process cooling loads. The system consists of a storage medium in a tank, a packaged chiller or built-up refrigeration system, and interconnecting piping, pumps, and controls. The storage medium is generally water, ice, or a phase-change material (sometimes called a eutectic salt); it is typically chilled to lower temperatures than would be required for direct cooling to keep the storage tank size within economic limits. Operating strategies are generally classified as either full storage or partial storage, referring to the amount of cooling load transferred from on-peak to off-peak. A full storage TES system provides enough cooling capacity to meet a building's cooling requirements during on-peak periods. A partial storage system is used in conjunction with a conventional cooling system and requires a longer cooling cycle. As a result, it does not shift the entire cooling load to non-peak periods. Partial storage achieves less demandreduction savings; however, it is initially less expensive than a full storage system. TES systems can be used in most commercial and industrial facilities, but certain criteria must be met for economic feasibility. A system can be appropriate when maximum cooling load is significantly higher than average load. High demand charges and a significant differential between on-peak and off-peak rates also help make TES systems economic. They may also be appropriate where increased chiller capacity is needed for an existing system, or where back-up or redundant cooling capacity is desirable. In new construction, ductwork could be smaller with a TES, allowing more usable space. A TES system may also reduce a building's required electrical capacity, lowering the cost of electrical service for a new or expanding facility. TES systems may consume more energy than non-storage systems if the primary TES design objective is demand reduction. Cool storage does require the chiller to work harder to cool the system down to the required lower temperatures (for ice storage); and energy is needed to pump fluids in and out of storage. But a number of design options can make TES systems more energy-efficient than non-storage systems. Storage systems let

chillers operate at full load all night instead of operating at full or part load during the day. Depending on the system configuration, the chiller may be smaller than would be required for direct cooling, allowing smaller auxiliaries such as cooling-tower fans, condenser water pumps, or condenser fans. Pumping energy can be reduced by increasing the chilled water temperature range; fan energy can be cut with colder air distribution. Storage systems can also make increased use of heat recovery and waterside economizer strategies. Advantages of Thermal Energy Systems Load shifting is typically the main reason to install a TES system. Cool storage systems can significantly cut operating costs by cooling with cheaper off-peak energy, and reducing or eliminating on-peak demand charges. In addition, installing a TES system will provide you with many other economic and maintenance benefits, including:

Lower Capital Costs: A TES system takes up less space and, when designed in conjunction with an air distribution system and installed during a building's construction phase, requires smaller ducts and fan motors. This can reduce spacing between floors and save you money. More Efficient Equipment Operation: Conventional systems only operate at partial operating conditions most of the time. In contrast, the compressor used in a TES system operates at full-load conditions for a shorter period of time while the system is being charged. The equipment's operating efficiency increases. Additionally, because the stored cooling equipment typically operates at night when outdoor air temperatures are cooler, heat rejection is improved. Operational Flexibility: A TES system provides optimum cost flexibility because it permits the consumption of space-cooling energy during periods of minimum demand. Increased Building Value and Marketability: A TES system's lower operating costs will increase building value and marketability.

Choosing a Thermal Energy System Several factors influence which type of system will best meet your building's needs. These include building occupancy type and operating characteristics, the amount of available space for storage, and compatibility with planned heating, ventilating, and air conditioning equipment. When evaluating a TES system, take into consideration the following features:

Ease of Control: The easier a system is to operate, the better it will perform. Simple controls help minimize operator problems that may lead to system downtime.

Maintenance: Maintenance can be provided through a manufacturer service agreement. Manufacturers also provide design information, staff training, operation and maintenance manuals, and installation references. Working with manufacturers has several benefits including system familiarity, system design assistance, and ease of maintenance.

Manufacturers Chicago Bridge & Iron Co. Cryogel FAFCO, Inc. For More Information Call 1-800-468-4743 for more information about PG&E's energy efficiency programs and other services.