"Indeed there is a finite supply of oil"
Benefits of Thermal Energy Storage Applications (TES)
Energy independence has been garnering interest over the last 30 years. We seek renewable resources that may be derived from the sun, wind, or oceans. One of the primary factors that has led to a greater attention to alternate energy is the rapid increase in oil and energy costs since 2006.
Passive seasonal energy storage has been around for centuries as a source of heating and cooling. With today’s technology, it is now possible to utilize high efficiency solar collectors to store vast amounts of energy in well-insulated tanks for the purpose of utilizing the stored energy in opposite seasons. In other words, the sun’s heat in the summer can be stored and utilized during the winter months.
A Thermal Reserve Thermal Energy Storage (TES) system uses relatively simple technology with few moving parts that can provide nearly no-cost heating based on tank size and building site conditions. The cost of installing a TES system in new construction will be comparable to that of a conventional system. Additional benefits since January 2009, are large tax credits to offset the cost of installation.
Today’s vacuum tube solar collectors are extremely efficient and can perform well year- round. This ensures a steady flow of additional heat into the tanks in winter (at a slower rate than in summer).
Benefits to this type of system are clear:
* Lower household energy bills (No more annual heating bills)
* No fossil emissions
* New construction no longer needs an oil tank, gas line, a fire rated boiler room or chimney
* Environmentally friendly since water is used as the storage medium
Economics of Thermal Energy Storage (TES)
The installation of a TES system will have different paybacks and cost comparisons based on the type of building. Influencing factors include:
* New construction
* Replacement of an existing system
* Building orientation
* Site conditions
* Building use
* Tax Credits – Federal and State
For new construction, a TES system will be comparable in cost to that of a conventional heating system, possibly less.
*The biggest difference is that there is no annual fuel bill other than electricity to operate small circulating pumps and control valves.
Applications for Thermal Energy Storage (TES)
* Residential
* Schools
* Strip Malls
* Low rise office buildings
* Manufacturing
Thermal energy storage solutions are ideal for low-rise commercial, industrial and educational buildings as there is usually a large roof area coupled with an ample area for insulated underground storage tanks. Residential applications are also strong candidates for a TES solution.