Assessment of thermal energy systems Analysis, modeling and prototyping of optimal systems

Thermal energy storage offers versatile solutions for a wide range of applications. At CC TES, we identify the most suitable technologies for use in buildings, neighborhoods, thermal grids, and regional energy systems. Our evaluations are guided by key factors such as energy demand, available space, and budget. Through in-depth analysis and parameter optimization, we develop customized and effective solutions. Beyond heating and cooling purposes, we also examine the potential of thermal storages in providing flexibility to the electricity grid.

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Digitization efforts by utilities (topic smart meter roll-out), component manufacturers and the public sector (topic data hub) drive an increase of available measurement data from energy systems. However, sources are not only grid operators with smart meters, but also individual appliances (e.g. heat pumps), buildings (e.g. monitoring for Minergie standards) and even districts (e.g. SSC billing (self-sufficiency community)) and entire municipalities. So far, this data has mainly been used for billing purposes or to visualize measured values on company websites and smartphone apps. In our research, we develop methods to facilitate new  applications and business cases for energy system data, as well as to estimate missing data. Thus, covering all four stages of data: Acquisition, Aggregation, Analysis/Interpretation and Visualization. 

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Nowadays, many commercial modeling programs for the analysis of energy systems are available. However, the thermal storage component and the specificities of heat compared to electricity  is often described based on a highly simplified physical model that does not take sufficient account of time and temperature-dependent effects. For this reason, we develop our own in-house models for the design and optimisation of systems with integrated thermal storage. These models are constantly devised based on latest research. This software suite enables us to model systems as realistically as possible and thus meet our high requirements and demands.

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Our focus is on the development of new heat and cold storage systems and on overcoming key challenges such as system integration, material optimization and efficient control. Therefore, we build and test prototypes of various storage technologies, carry out comprehensive measurements to validate simulation models and use demonstration systems to evaluate the practicability of new concepts. Our research and development is aligned towards the specific social, political and legal framework conditions in Switzerland in order to create viable and future-proof storage solutions. We take into account not only technical requirements, but also regulatory specifications and social aspects to ensure broad acceptance and successful implementation of our technologies.

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