What is Thermal Energy Storage (TES)?

Thermal Energy Storage (TES) is a technology that stores energy in the form of heat or cold for later use. At a commercial scale, it allows industrial plants, utilities, and large facilities to decouple energy supply from demand, improving efficiency and lowering costs.

How does TES work?

TES systems absorb energy during periods of low cost or excess supply (such as at night or during renewable generation peaks) and release it when energy demand or prices are higher. Storage media—such as water, molten salts, or engineered materials—hold the heat or cold until needed.

What are the main benefits of TES?

- Energy cost savings by shifting demand to off-peak times
- Grid stability through load balancing and renewable integration
- Carbon reduction by enabling higher use of renewable power
- Operational flexibility for industrial processes and utilities
- Resilience through backup heat supply during outages

Where is TES typically used?

- Industrial facilities with large heating loads
- Food and beverage processing plants
- District heating networks
- Power plants (renewable and conventional)
- Large commercial buildings and campuses

How large can TES systems be?

TES projects range from a few megawatt-hours (MWh) for a single facility to gigawatt-hours (GWh) for district energy or utility-scale applications. System size depends on storage medium, footprint, and customer needs.

How long can heat be stored?

OUR TES systems can store energy from a few hours to several days.

How does TES integrate with renewable energy?

TES captures excess solar or wind power (often converted to heat) when generation is high, then releases it when renewable supply is low—helping stabilize grids and decarbonize heating-intensive industries.

What are the typical costs of TES?

Costs vary by scale, technology, and application. Capital costs are typically lower per unit of stored energy than batteries, and operating costs are minimal. TES systems also have long service lives—often 20–40 years.

How safe is TES?

TES uses well-understood materials and industrial equipment. TES systems are safe, low-maintenance, and proven in decades of commercial operation worldwide.

What is the environmental impact?

TES has very low environmental impact. It enables greater use of renewable energy, reduces fossil fuel consumption, and lowers greenhouse gas emissions. Storage media are typically non-toxic and recyclable.

How long does it take to install a TES system?

Project timelines vary but typically range from 4–12 months from design to commissioning, depending on system scale and site conditions.

How does TES compare to batteries?

Batteries store electricity directly; TES stores heat.
TES offers longer lifetimes, lower costs per kWh for large-scale applications, and can be better suited for heating loads.

Is TES right for my facility?

If your facility has large heating needs, fluctuating energy costs, or sustainability goals, TES could provide substantial financial and environmental benefits. A feasibility study can determine the right design and scale.