In a groundbreaking study presented at the SolarPACES Conference, Francisco Cabello from the National Renewable Energy Centre has unveiled a dynamic modeling approach that could revolutionize the way industries harness solar energy. The research focuses on the integration of Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) technologies with Thermochemical Energy Storage (TCES), a combination that promises to address the pressing energy demands of the industrial sector, which is still heavily reliant on fossil fuels.
The study highlights the potential of TCES to mitigate the variability of solar energy, particularly during seasonal fluctuations. By employing a novel lumped-capacitance model, Cabello and his team simulated a continuous suspension reactor utilizing salt hydrates such as calcium oxalate monohydrate and anhydrous forms. This innovative approach allows for efficient heat balances and reaction kinetics, essential for the dehydration process that enables effective energy storage.
“Our model demonstrates the feasibility of using thermochemical energy storage to meet both daily and seasonal energy demands in industrial applications,” Cabello stated. The case study conducted in a dairy processing facility in Spain provides compelling evidence of this technology’s potential. The results from July indicated that the solar installation could contribute a remarkable 47.3% of the facility’s energy needs, while the stored thermochemical energy could fulfill 22.1% of the low-temperature energy demand in January.
This research not only showcases the efficacy of solar energy in industrial processes but also opens the door for significant commercial implications. As industries face increasing pressure to decarbonize, the integration of CSP and TCES could lead to substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with global sustainability goals. Cabello emphasizes that “the importance of TCES in sustainable energy systems cannot be overstated,” suggesting that further optimization and economic assessments could enhance its viability for a broader range of applications.
Looking ahead, the research team plans to refine their model and explore additional thermochemical materials, supported by experimental data. This forward-thinking approach could pave the way for more robust energy solutions that cater to the specific needs of various industries.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the implications of this research are profound. By leveraging innovative storage methods like TCES, industries can not only secure a more reliable energy supply but also contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future. The findings from Cabello’s study, published in the SolarPACES Conference Proceedings, signal a promising step toward a new era of energy efficiency and environmental stewardship.
For more information about Francisco Cabello and his work at the National Renewable Energy Centre, visit CENER.
