Thermal Energy Storage Technology in solar Energy Utilization: A Review

Thermal energy storage (TES) is a promising technique that conserves accumulated thermal energy from heat and cold mediums, making it available for future use. This method allows energy to be stored under various conditions, presenting an attractive solution for harnessing solar radiation efficiently and in large quantities. TES is becoming increasingly important as renewable electricity integration grows and the demand for low-carbon energy rises. Concentrating solar power plants benefit from TES, enabling them to store excess solar energy during peak times and utilize it during periods of lower solar radiation, ensuring a continuous power supply. Additionally, standalone TES systems for grid applications are gaining popularity, especially with the declining costs of renewable energy. These systems facilitate energy integration and help meet the increasing energy demands sustainably. Phase change materials (PCMs) play a vital role in thermal energy storage systems, contributing to effective energy conservation. Their high thermal storage density and moderate temperature volatility make them ideal for storing and releasing significant amounts of thermal energy. As a result, PCMs have gained popularity in this field. This study examines various aspects of thermal energy storage systems, with a particular focus on research articles related to storage materials and methods. It explores sensible heat storage, which involves altering material temperatures to store energy, latent heat storage that capitalizes on phase change properties like those of PCMs, chemical storage utilizing chemical reactions for energy storage, and cascaded thermal storage systems that combine different methods for optimized energy storage. By exploring these areas, this research aims to advance the understanding of thermal energy storage and contribute to the ongoing efforts in achieving sustainable and low-carbon energy solutions for the future.