Optimizing the performance of a novel compact integrated thermal storage system (MiniStor) under diverse climate conditions

The widespread adoption of renewable energy technologies requires adaptable and replicable energy storage solutions tailored to diverse climatic conditions. This paper presents a comprehensive study on the replication potential of a compact hybrid energy storage solution, called MiniStor across various European sites. The MiniStor system integrates solar photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) and solar thermal collectors, a thermochemical (TCM) reactor using an ammonia cycle, a heat pump with phase change material (PCM) storage, and a battery for electrical energy management in buildings. Its core innovation, the TCM reactor stores heat through reversible ammonia-calcium chloride reactions, providing heating during winter and cooling during summer. To assess its broader applicability, the system’s replication potential was evaluated across various European climates and residential typologies, focusing on single-family homes. Simulation, based on specific meteorological and building data, demonstrated that MiniStor can effectively operate across diverse regions demonstrating significant potential for RES integration across Europe, with renewable energy coverage ranging from 32% to over 88% depending on location for the worst-case scenario. This work contributes to accelerating the large-scale integration of renewable energy storage solutions in the built environment across Europe.