In the ever-evolving landscape of energy production, the integration of renewable sources is pushing thermal power plants to adapt and innovate. As grids become more dynamic, conventional thermal power units are facing new challenges, including frequent load variations that can lead to inefficiencies and increased wear and tear. Enter molten-salt thermal energy storage (TES), a technology that promises to revolutionize how these plants operate.
Fengying Ren, a researcher at the Institute of Thermal Science and Technology at Shandong University in Jinan, China, has been at the forefront of this innovation. In a recent study published in Energies, Ren and her team delve into the potential of molten-salt TES to enhance the operational flexibility of thermal power units. The research, which employs comprehensive thermodynamic simulations, explores three different schemes for heat storage and release, each with its own set of advantages and trade-offs.
The first two schemes, known as single steam extraction configurations, offer improved thermal efficiency and reduced system complexity. These configurations are particularly appealing for their simplicity and cost-effectiveness, making them a practical option for many existing thermal power plants. “The single steam extraction configurations provide a balanced approach, combining efficiency with ease of implementation,” Ren explains. “This makes them an attractive option for plants looking to upgrade their systems without significant overhauls.”
However, it is the third scheme, dubbed the dual steam extraction configuration, that truly stands out. This method involves extracting feedwater from the condenser outlet, providing enhanced operational flexibility but requiring a higher initial investment. “While the dual steam extraction configuration demands more upfront costs, the payoff in terms of thermal storage capacity and peak-load regulation potential is substantial,” Ren notes. This scheme offers the highest thermal storage capacity, making it ideal for plants that need to manage significant fluctuations in energy demand.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. As renewable energy sources continue to gain traction, the ability of thermal power units to adapt to grid fluctuations will become increasingly crucial. Molten-salt TES offers a viable solution, enabling these plants to store surplus energy during periods of low demand and release it during peak times. This not only improves grid stability but also reduces the frequency of plant start-ups and minimizes operational disturbances.
For the energy sector, the adoption of molten-salt TES could mean significant cost savings and improved efficiency. Plants that integrate this technology will be better equipped to handle the variability of renewable energy sources, ensuring a more reliable and stable energy supply. Moreover, the findings from Ren’s study provide valuable insights into the trade-offs between different design strategies, helping energy companies make informed decisions about their investments.
As the energy landscape continues to evolve, the work of researchers like Fengying Ren will be instrumental in shaping the future of thermal power generation. By leveraging the potential of molten-salt TES, thermal power units can become more flexible, efficient, and adaptable, playing a crucial role in a renewable-dominated energy landscape. The study, published in Energies, offers a roadmap for the industry, highlighting the benefits and challenges of integrating molten-salt thermal storage systems with conventional thermal power units. As the energy sector looks to the future, the insights from this research will be invaluable in driving innovation and sustainability.