Control of Thermal Energy Storage (TES) operation

What is thermal energy storage in the cooling domain?

Thermal energy storage, also called TES, is a system that stores cold for later use. A building might produce ice or cold water at night, for example, and use it during the day to cool spaces. This spreads energy demand across the day.

The smart-ready service C-1g assesses how the operation of this storage system is controlled. The more advanced the control, the higher the functionality level within the Smart Readiness Indicator (SRI).

Which functionality levels apply to this service?

The SRI defines functionality levels from 0 to 4 for each smart-ready service. For C-1g, four levels are specified, from 0 to 3.

• Level 0: continuous storage operation. The storage works without specific control.
• Level 1: time-controlled storage operation. The system charges and discharges at fixed times.
• Level 2: storage operation based on load forecasting. The system takes expected cooling demand into account.
• Level 3: cold storage capable of flexible grid signal control, such as demand side management (DSM). The system responds to electricity grid signals.

A higher level generally means more flexibility and better matched energy use, but also requires more technology and control.

How does this service count toward the SRI score?

C-1g is part of the cooling domain, one of nine domains within the SRI methodology. Each service is assessed against seven impact criteria, such as energy efficiency and grid flexibility.

This service counts only under method B, the comprehensive assessment with 54 smart-ready services. Under method A, with 27 services, this service does not appear. This means buildings assessed under method A cannot earn or lose points based on this specific service.