Authors
K. Zhang; M. Liu; Y. Zhao; H. Yan; J. Yan
This paper presents the design and performance evaluation of a thermal energy storage (TES) system integrated into an existing coal-fired power plant. The proposed system stores thermal energy during periods of low electricity demand and releases it to support power generation during peak demand. By integrating thermal storage with the plant’s steam cycle, the system improves operational flexibility and enables more stable plant operation under variable load conditions. The study evaluates the thermodynamic performance and potential efficiency impacts of the integrated system. Results indicate that thermal energy storage can enhance load regulation capability while enabling coal-fired plants to operate more flexibly within electricity systems with increasing shares of renewable energy.