How It Works
Concentrated solar energy is converted to thermal energy and stored at high temperature for extended periods of time. Think of it as a battery except with thermal rather than electrical energy. The stored solar energy can then be used at night, on cloudy days,... whenever it is needed. Photonstor can provide heat directly for industry, power plants, commercial or residential needs. It can also convert the heat to electricity offloading the grid, improving grid stability, and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
- Long duration, high temperature Thermal Energy Storage powered by Concentrated Solar Thermal Energy
- Parabolic mirrors concentrate solar energy to the equivalent of 1,000 suns
- Concentrated light is transferred to the energy storage system
- Radiant energy is converted and stored as thermal energy
- Energy is extracted directly as heat or converted to electricity
- Heat can be used directly for industrial processes, district heating, or residential space and water heating
- Heat can be converted to electricity with a Stirling or Rankine cycle engine
- SmartSun energy management software uses site specific weather forecasts to manage energy collection and use.
