Phenomenon Identification and Ranking Table Development for Future Application Figure-of-Merit Studies on Thermal Energy Storage Integrations with Light Water Reactors

Abstract

There are no standard prioritization criteria for evaluating thermal energy storage (TES) options for use in integrated energy systems. A framework for proposing, analyzing, and presenting energy storage integration with power producers and users is presented along with a specific figure-of-merit (FOM) study based in this framework. This basis for evaluating storage technologies can provide a structure for the energy industry to analyze and prioritize energy storage in different applications and environments. The phenomena identification and ranking table (PIRT) presents a series of design questions specific to energy storage applications. The FOM study, built in this PIRT framework based on a nuclear-renewable hybrid energy system using TES to produce power and provide process energy for a secondary user, successfully identified specific technologies to use based on the project requirements. Expanding the library of projects using this framework will expand the deployable options for energy storage and increase its potential for energy security.

Delivery of Dynamic Thermal Energy Storage Models and Advanced Reactor Concept Models to the HYBRID Repository

“…This work was conducted in conjunction with another task related to using figures of merit (FOMs) to systematically develop a FOM study. Building from the Phenomenon Identification and Ranking Table and the FOM study completed in the summer of 2019, the methodology explained in that study was applied to investigate advanced reactor designs alongside the current suite of proposed energy storage technologies [12]. The evaluation criteria were as follows: technology readiness level, temperature compatibility, energy density, size, cycle frequency, ramp time, realignment frequency, geographic needs, environmental impact, and interventions.…”

“…Because the power production is based on gas expansion through the Brayton cycle, increased heat input should result in higher efficiencies. While Highview Power's designs include cold storage for continued use in the plant, if a source of waste cold is available, 100% AC-to-AC power efficiency can be achieved thanks to a reduction in refrigeration needs during the liquefaction process [12]. The initial pilot plant by Highview Power achieved just an 8% RTE.…”

Phenomenon Identification and Ranking Table Analysis for Thermal Energy Storage Technologies Integration with Advanced Nuclear Reactors

“…Third, a thermal buffer allows a decoupling between the nuclear core and the power conversion unit that historically has dictated system operation. In previous work, Idaho National Laboratory (INL) analyzed 10 TES technologies for coupling with light-water reactors (LWRs) [2]. In comparison, the work presented herein focuses primarily on TES systems that are well suited for coupling with advanced NPPs.…”