Integration of thermal energy storage in industrial processes: challenges and opportunities

Green Energy and Sustainability 2025;5(1):0001 | https://doi.org/10.47248/ges2505010001

Perspective Open Access

Integration of thermal energy storage in industrial processes: challenges and opportunities

Zhiwei Ma ¹ , Herbert Zondag ^2,3 , Alexis Sevault ⁴ , Hanne Kauko ⁵ , Salvatore Vasta ⁶ , Anthony Paul Roskilly ¹

1 Department of Engineering, Durham University, Durham DH1 3LE, UK
2 Department of Energy and Materials Transition, TNO, P.O. Box 15, 1755 ZG Petten, The Netherlands
3 Department of Mechanical Engineering, TU Eindhoven, P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
4 Cartesian, Tempevegen 22, 7031 Trondheim, Norway
5 SINTEF Energy Research, SINTEF, P.O. Box 4760 Torgarden, Trondheim, Norway
6 CNR, Salita S. Lucia sopra Contesse n. 598126 – Messina, Italy

Correspondence: Zhiwei Ma

Academic Editor(s): Craig Banks

Received: Sep 23, 2024 | Accepted: Dec 20, 2024 | Published: Jan 29, 2025

Cite this article: Ma Z, Zondag H, Sevault A, Kauko H, Vasta S, Roskilly A. Integration of thermal energy storage in industrial processes: challenges and opportunities. Green Energy Sustain 2025; 5(1):0001. https://doi.org/10.47248/ges2505010001

Abstract

The transition to sustainable energy systems is crucial in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing energy efficiency. This paper synthesizes insights from industrial experts and academic researchers on the challenges, opportunities and solutions of integration of thermal energy storage (TES) in industrial energy systems. These insights were gathered during an international expert workshop on TES, organized by the European Energy Research Alliance as part of the Joint Program on Energy Efficiency in Industry (EERA-JP EEIP) on November 7th, 2023, discussing a white paper on industrial thermal energy storage. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current state and future potential of TES technologies. Demonstrating technology benefits, continuing material development, improving economic feasibility, enhancing system flexibility, developing innovative business models, fostering policy supports, and facilitating knowledge transfer are believed to be essential for the successful adoption of TES technologies in industry.

Keywords

thermal energy storage, industrial processes, energy efficiency, sustainability

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