University of Birmingham researchers have designed a novel energy storage system that could pave the way for decarbonisation of commercial buildings by charging from surplus renewable power that would otherwise be wasted, and delivering heat or cooling when required.
University of Birmingham researchers have designed a novel energy storage system that could pave the way for decarbonisation of commercial buildings by charging from surplus renewable power that would otherwise be wasted, and delivering heat or cooling when required.
Developed by Professor Yongliang Li, Chair in Thermal Energy Engineering at the School of Chemical Engineering, the compact system is intended for buildings where traditional appliances such as heat pumps are impractical, and has been demonstrated at lab scale with a 5kW demonstrator unit that responds intelligently to smart tariffs and grid signals.
The system uses advanced thermochemical materials that have dramatically higher energy densities than conventional systems. Early analysis has shown commercial adopters can expect lower upfront and running costs than existing systems.
Read More: University of Birmingham
The 5kW demonstrator unit that responds intelligently to smart tariffs and grid signals (Photo Credit: University of Birmingham)
