Phase Change Salt Thermal Energy Storage for Dish Stirling Solar Power Systems Available to Purchase

The ability of thermal energy storage (TES) to avoid the major intermittency issues associated with solar photovoltaic power generation is a key differentiator for concentrating solar power (CSP) systems. Infinia Corporation is a pioneer in phase change salt TES systems, with one DOE contract based on heat pipes [1], and a second DOE contract that uses an inherently simpler, patented sodium pool boiler that is integral with the TES salt. This paper describes the Phase 1 results for that second contract, which is targeted for cost effective extended duration storage for CSP systems up to a level that can provide baseload power, with a particular focus on dish Stirling systems.