Advancing sustainable energy solutions for hot regions: an in-depth exploration of solar thermal energy storage (STES) technologies and applications

Abstract Thermal energy storage (TES) is a method of storing thermal energy that involves heating or cooling a storage medium for use in heating, cooling, and power generation applications. This technique is commonly used in industrial processes and building construction. This article focuses on new TES technologies that aim to reduce building energy demands by utilizing solar heat and harnessing solar power. The article discusses various types of energy storage and calculates storage capacities based on these methods. Additionally, the article briefly mentions the latest sensible heat storage techniques, such as water tanks, buried storage units, and packed beds. The article also discusses latent-heat storage systems using phase-change materials, which are applicable for solar heating and cooling of buildings, solar water heating, heat pumps, solar concentrating power plants, or thermochemical storage. Furthermore, the article briefly discusses the performance and cost of TES systems and the concept of cool thermal energy storage.