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Conference paper: A Modelling-Based Parametric Assessment of sTES Design and Operation Within a Thermal Source Network

Conference:19th IBPSA Conference Brisbane, Australia, Aug 24-27, 2025

Authors: Shariq Akbar (THI), Simon Müller (THI), Abdulrahman Dahash (AIT), Christoph Bott (MLU), David Schmitt (THI), Christoph Trinkl (THI), Peter Bayer (MLU), Tobias Schrag (THI)

Abstract
Thermal Source Networks (TSN), operating at low temperatures, are pivotal for the energy transition, enabling the integration of low-grade energy sources, such as waste heat, and renewable energy sources. So far, research primarily focused on the planning and design of seasonal thermal energy storage (sTES) within conventional high-temperature (> 70 °C) district heating networks, often overlooking unique challenges of TSNs, such as managing bi-directional flow and simultaneously balancing heating and cooling demands. This study addresses this gap by evaluating the impact of key design and operational parameters on the integration of closed, partially buried, water-based sTES into a TSN. Thus, a simulation-based approach, employing MATLAB Simulink for energy system modelling and a Functional Mock-Up Unit (FMU) for sTES from Modelica/Dymola, assesses the influence of network demand, storage size, and insulation on sTES operation. Results reveal that insulation benefits large sTES the most in heating-dominated TSN by reducing heat losses, whereas it has minimal impact on large sTES in cold-dominated TSN. These findings offer practical insights into sTES integration, enhancing TSN efficiency and adaptability for sustainable energy solutions.