Integrated Thermal energy Storages for Zero Emission Buildings

Introduction

LIFE iTS4ZEB project will develop and demonstrate novel next generation long- and short-term, compact, high-performing, cost-effective, modular and integrated latent Thermal Energy Storage (TES) technologies. They are based on the exploitation of modern Phase Change Materials (PCM) storage system combined with high-efficiency heat pumps for heating and cooling of residential space and domestic hot water.

Core Technology

At the heart of the solution lies an innovative multi-source heat pump combined with PCM optimised by novel control algorithms to maximise performance, renewable energy fraction, GHG reduction, cost savings, and energy system integration.

Advanced Modelling and Control

For all solutions, advanced modelling and control approaches will be developed and integrated. Moreover, to further reduce the climate impact of our solution, the heat pump will be powered by nearly-zero GWP propane R290 heat exchanging fluid.

Flexibility and Applicability

The approach of the project is flexible, so that the solutions are applicable to a wide variety of buildings, including:

1. New or renovated
2. Poorly or well insulated
3. Tailored to their size, type, demands, and climatic zones of their location

Demonstration and Validation

The partners will install 50 independent demonstrators across Europe, in 10 countries, in order to test and validate the product in all possible contexts. These will show and prove the modularity, scalability, and feasibility of the developed technology with real-life demonstration in an operational environment, aiming to reach the industrial and commercial phase for the project (TRL 9, for a “close to the market” action).

Production and Market Readiness

INNOVA aims to produce a pre-series in the final configuration and start producing/selling the first batches (500 units) thanks to the deployment of a new production line.

Consortium and Market Pathway

The diverse international multi-disciplinary Consortium and the dedicated exploitation tasks will rapidly push the project to the market, paving the path for wide application of the demonstrated solutions.