Can we also use air conditioning systems as energy storage devices in the future to store green electricity for operation? New technologies such as a system called IceBrick are intended to make exactly that possible.
When temperatures are high, many people now resort to fans or air conditioning. Because when outside temperatures exceed 30 degrees, a cooled room is worth its weight in gold. But these systems can place significant strain on the power grid.
This inspired engineers to develop new, more sustainable technologies that can store energy and use it when needed. Loud of a report Cooling systems account for around 20 percent of global electricity consumption in buildings. But this share could continue to rise as climate change advances.
However, innovative cooling systems that can also store energy are intended to help by storing energy when demand is low and availability is high, thus relieving the burden on the power grid. For example, utility Nostromo Energy developed a system called IceBrick that stores energy by cooling and freezing a water-glycol solution in thousands of small containers.
Air conditioning systems as energy storage: New cooling systems are particularly efficient
Homeowners and renters can use these containers to complement existing cooling systems. The first use of the IceBrick system took place in 2023 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles. A system there supplied both the hotel itself and the neighboring Waldorf Astoria.
The technology can reduce demand during peak periods, thereby reducing energy costs for building owners. Another promising technology comes from the company Blue Frontier, which relies on the use of desiccants. These materials can absorb moisture from the air, making cooling more efficient than traditional systems.
The key to energy storage is desiccant recharge, which can be accomplished during periods of cheap or abundant renewable energy. These systems can contribute to the stability of the power grid without people having to turn down or turn off their air conditioning.
Using air conditioning as energy storage could reduce energy consumption
The biggest advantage of these technologies is their ability to flexibly adapt energy consumption to the requirements of the power grid. This could help reduce reliance on power outages that can occur when the grid is overloaded. Several customers are currently testing Blue Frontier’s systems. The company plans to expand production to make the technology available in private households.
However, challenges remain in making these solutions cost-effective to increase their market acceptance. Overall, these approaches offer a significant opportunity to meet the increasing demand for cooling technology while minimizing the impact on the power grid and the environment.
However, solving future energy and emissions problems will require more than just new technologies. Increased expansion of renewable energies and large-scale battery storage are necessary to achieve the goal of a carbon-free electricity grid.
Also interesting:
- Flash Joule Heating: Sustainable recycling of lithium-ion batteries
- Jelly battery: Researchers develop a new type of battery – inspired by electric eels
- Researchers are making environmentally friendly batteries from old solar panels
- New lithium metal battery: twice the performance and still more environmentally friendly
The article Air conditioning systems as energy storage: Is sustainable cooling coming? by Felix Baumann first appeared on BASIC thinking. Follow us too Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
As a tech industry expert, I believe that air conditioning systems have the potential to serve as a form of energy storage, particularly in the context of sustainable cooling. With the increasing demand for cooling in buildings and homes, there is a growing need for efficient and environmentally friendly cooling solutions.
One way in which air conditioning systems can contribute to sustainable cooling is by utilizing thermal energy storage technology. By storing excess thermal energy during off-peak hours and releasing it during peak demand periods, air conditioning systems can help reduce energy consumption and lower electricity costs.
Additionally, advancements in smart grid technology and the integration of renewable energy sources can further enhance the sustainability of air conditioning systems. By connecting air conditioning units to the grid and optimizing their operation based on real-time energy prices and availability of renewable energy, we can achieve more efficient and environmentally friendly cooling solutions.
Overall, I am optimistic about the potential of air conditioning systems as energy storage for sustainable cooling. With continued innovation and investment in this area, I believe that we can create a more sustainable and efficient cooling infrastructure that benefits both the environment and consumers.
Credits