Renewable energy has long been synonymous with wind and solar — sources derived from nature’s ability to create energy that emit zero greenhouse gases. Today, Thermal Energy Storage (TES) is emerging as a critical component of the renewable energy landscape, standing alongside wind and solar as part of the solution for a cleaner, more resilient energy future.
At this year’s Energy Efficiency Policy Forum, put on by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), demand response and virtual power plants (VPPs) were key topics of discussion, with Thermal Energy Storage increasingly recognized as a vital component. TES provides a reliable and cost-effective means of storing and releasing energy as cold or heat, helping balance supply and demand. By integrating with distributed energy resources like solar and wind, TES enhances the efficiency and flexibility of VPPs, storing excess renewable energy for later use, reducing grid strain, and improving energy resilience.
The ACEEE is a nonprofit focused on advancing energy efficiency to foster economic growth and address climate change which is committed to reducing energy waste, supporting equitable economic opportunities, and improving public health and the environment. This year’s Policy Forum centered on shaping federal energy policies, with discussions on building efficiency, transitioning industries to low-carbon practices, and enhancing electric vehicle and freight systems. The forum aimed to influence policies that strengthen U.S. competitiveness and address climate challenges.
Inspired by the discussions at the Energy Efficiency Policy Forum, Viking Cold Solutions leadership team took these learnings to the subsequent Department of Energy’s Deploy 24 Conference. The focus of the DOE conference was on accelerating the deployment of critical energy and decarbonization technologies, such as TES, across the U.S. At both events, Viking Cold engaged with policy makers, utility companies, and developers, exploring the growing opportunities TES offers for increased utilization of renewables. Viking Cold Solutions is ready to partner with our customers and ensure they achieve their sustainability goals.
Photos by ACEEE and DOE.
