Thermal energy storage integration in power system for power-to-heat services

The research project focuses on the integration of Thermal Energy Storage (TES) technologies within industrial power systems, with particular attention to Power-to-Heat (P2H) services. The main objective is to understand how TES can provide operational flexibility, optimize the use of renewable electricity and enable participation in remunerative grid services, while simultaneously contributing to the decarbonization of industrial thermal processes. In the first part of the project, dedicated to the state of the art, the main energy storage systems and markets will be examined, thus providing a reference framework for P2H applications and for the opportunities of integrating storage technologies into existing markets. Subsequently, the analysis will focus on the TES technology developed by Magaldi, which is adopted as the reference TES solution for the purposes of this study. This system will be examined in detail, with an in-depth discussion of its main components, operating principles, and possible plant configurations, considering both pilot-scale and industrial-scale applications. The central part of the work will focus on the development of techno-economic simulation models capable of estimating TES performance under different operational scenarios and supporting the optimization of system size and operating parameters. The calculation methods for thermal losses, overall efficiency, energy costs, and marginal revenues from grid services will be presented, with the aim of providing advanced digital tools to guide design choices. Finally, the document will concentrate on the industrial applications of TES, assessing scenarios for fossil fuel substitution, integration with Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems, and participation in electricity markets under different price conditions. The techno-economic analysis will make it possible to identify the most promising opportunities for P2H projects, define barriers and enabling factors, and provide insights into future developments to enhance the flexibility, efficiency, and profitability of TES systems, thereby supporting the electrification and decarbonization of industrial processes.