The significance of giving priority to the development of solar thermal energy storage

Why is solar thermal energy storage important?

For regions with an abundance of solar energy, solar thermal energy storage technology offers tremendous potential for ensuring energy security, minimizing carbon footprints, and reaching sustainable development goals. Global energy demand soared because of the economy’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Why do energy storage technologies vary by region?

Energy storage technologies vary by region due to factors such as geography, technological maturity and policy support. Countries with abundant solar resources, like Australia and the Middle East, often use battery or concentrated solar power with thermal storage.

Why is solar thermal technology important?

For regions with an abundance of solar resources, solar thermal technology is extremely promising for ensuring energy security, minimizing carbon footprints, and ultimately achieving sustainable development goals.

What are the advantages of solar energy storage materials?

The better thermal conductivity, significant storage capacity, nonflammability, non-toxicity, and the lowest cost make these materials suitable for storing thermal energy in diverse solar applications such as solar power generation, solar cooking, desalination, and solar drying.

What is the current trend of research in thermal energy storage?

The description of recent developments of thermal energy storage technologies has also been included to represent the current trend of research in this area. The increase in global energy consumption and the depletion of conventional energy resources have triggered efforts to explore sustainable renewable energy resources.

Can thermochemical energy storage be used in solar thermal power plants?

Thermochemical energy storage can be one of the best possible options for thermal energy storage in solar thermal power plants. Let us consider one such example of thermochemical energy storage using metal hydride discussed earlier.