Simulation-based analysis of thermochemical heat storage feasibility in third-generation district heating systems: Case study of Enschede, Netherlands

In this article a dual heat storage system comprising thermochemical heat storage (TCS) and hot water storage for managing the mismatch between heat generation and demand in district heating systems (DHs) is evaluated. TCS is known as technology suitable for long-term heat storage due to its high energy density and negligible heat losses over a longer period. However, the integration of TCS in DHs is significantly influenced by the operating conditions of DHs. Here we evaluate the feasibility of integrating TCS into DHs in the Enschede region of the Netherlands. DHs models are established to simulate heat generation, demand, and storage, and a control strategy is designed to manage storage coordination. The obtained results show that the dual storage system outperforms the single hot water storage system in reducing peak load generation. Depending on the TCS's operational condition, annual energy generation from peak load in dual storage systems could drop by 30–60 % compared to the single hot water storage system. It is achieved mainly by managing the energy capacity remaining in the storage system. The technical feasibility and benefits of implementing a TCS system in DHs with a dual storage system are shown to be more energy efficient.