Experimental Assessment of Thermal Energy Storage Systems for Renewable Energy Integration

Abstract

Thermal Energy Storage (TES) systems have become an essential component in modern renewable energy technologies, offering potential solutions to intermittency challenges and enabling stable grid integration. This research experimentally evaluates the performance, efficiency, and operational behavior of latent and sensible heat storage configurations under varying renewable energy input conditions. A comprehensive assessment was conducted using phase change materials, molten salts, and water-based heat storage units, focusing on charging–discharging cycles, heat retention duration, and thermal stability. The study further analyzes transient thermal response, energy density, and round-trip efficiency, correlating results with typical solar and wind generation profiles to determine their compatibility with real-time renewable operations. The findings highlight that latent heat–based TES systems outperform conventional sensible heat units in energy density and stability, while hybrid combinations provide optimal balance between cost and performance. Experimental results demonstrate that TES paired with solar photovoltaic and concentrated solar power units significantly enhances output reliability and peak-shaving capabilities. This work contributes new insights into TES behavior under dynamic renewable energy fluctuations and
provides a strong foundation for designing efficient, scalable storage infrastructures for future sustainable energy networks.