In an ever-warming world, the demand for efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly cooling solutions is paramount.
The advent of Cold Thermal Energy Storage (CTES) systems marks a revolutionary step in addressing these needs. Among these systems, EnergiVault, developed by O-Hx, stands out as an exceptional solution.
The Growing Need for Efficient Cooling
Globally, more than 10% of total electricity consumption is used in industrial refrigeration, with this figure soaring to 70% in hotter climates like Saudi Arabia.
As temperatures rise and energy efficiency becomes a critical concern, the need for innovative cooling technologies is more pressing than ever. EnergiVault addresses this need by offering a unique and patented thermal energy storage solution that can be retrofitted to existing cooling systems or installed alongside new setups.
What is EnergiVault?
EnergiVault is a business energy storage solution that utilises binary ice to store and release energy. This system comprises a thermal battery and a charger, enabling it to store energy during periods of low demand or low-cost electricity and release it during peak demand periods. This capability not only optimises energy use but also significantly reduces operational costs and carbon emissions.
Key Benefits of Cold Energy Storage with EnergiVault
- Cost Efficiency: EnergiVault allows users to charge the thermal battery when electricity prices are low, such as during off-peak hours or when renewable energy sources are abundant. This can lead to substantial cost savings. For instance, shifting energy usage from peak to off-peak times can reduce cooling costs by up to 75%.
- Carbon Reduction: By utilising off-peak electricity, which is generally less carbon-intensive, EnergiVault can significantly lower your carbon footprint. Additionally, if integrated with on-site renewable energy sources like wind or solar power, it can help achieve net-zero cooling operations.
- Operational Resilience: EnergiVault enhances the reliability and flexibility of cooling systems. It provides uninterruptible cooling supply during peak demand periods and reduces the need for additional chiller capacity, thus avoiding high capital expenditures.
- Efficiency and Performance: With a round trip efficiency of over 95% and no capacity loss over its lifetime, EnergiVault ensures optimal performance. Its ability to deliver rapid cooling response and support high discharge rates from a low power input makes it an unparalleled solution in the market
- Integration and Scalability: EnergiVault is designed to be easily integrated into existing chiller systems. It is scalable to meet varying cooling demands, making it suitable for a wide range of applications from small industrial setups to large commercial installations.
How EnergiVault Works
EnergiVault operates by storing energy in the form of binary ice during periods of low demand. This stored energy is then released to provide cooling during peak periods. The system’s AI-led optimisation software ensures that energy use is maximised during low carbon-intensive periods, further enhancing its efficiency and sustainability.
The system consists of a thermal battery and a charger. The battery can store up to 1 MWh of thermal energy and has a peak cooling capacity of up to 500 kWt. The charger, using natural refrigerant ammonia (R717), ensures high efficiency and low environmental impact. This configuration allows for flexible hook-up or hard-piped connections, catering to customer preferences and site requirements.
Case Studies and Proven Results
A case study conducted at a manufacturing facility demonstrated the significant savings and operational benefits of using business energy storage solutions such as EnergiVault.
The facility, operating 365 days a year, reduced its cooling demand by 365 MWh per year by integrating EnergiVault with its existing chiller system. This resulted in substantial cost savings and a notable reduction in CO2 emissions.
Installation and Maintenance
The process of installing an EnergiVault is straightforward and minimally disruptive. A site survey is conducted to assess cooling requirements, after which the system can be easily bolted on to existing chiller systems.
Maintenance is simplified through its robust design and user-friendly interface, which includes a touch screen with operator and service dashboards.
EnergiVault by O-Hx is not just a cooling system; it is a comprehensive solution that addresses the critical needs of cost efficiency, carbon reduction, and operational resilience in industrial and commercial cooling applications. By leveraging advanced thermal storage technology, EnergiVault provides a sustainable, reliable, and economically advantageous solution for modern cooling challenges.
Incorporating EnergiVault into your business energy storage solution ensures that you are not only reducing costs and carbon emissions but also future-proofing your operations against the ever-increasing demands for energy efficiency and sustainability.
Cold Thermal Energy Storage utilising EnergiVault is the future of Energy Storage Globally,
