Knowledge Exchange Forums
Discussing thermal energy solutions one subject at a time
The knowledge exchange forums are interactive meetings during which a series of subjects are presented and discussed among the participants. These sessions will not only allow engaged stakeholders to directly exchange with each-other, but also learn about the latest project breakthroughs and create a network for crowd-sourcing solutions to challenges we will eventually face throughout the development of the project.
The basic idea is for us to meet online about once per month and discuss a given subject at a time. We start the meetings with a 15-20 minute presentation which is then followed by a discussion with the participants.
We are currently planning new meetings for 2024. Some of the subjects we will be discussing include:
- The research behind our Sorption TES (SorTES) weekly storage solutions based on thermo chemical materials (TCM)
- The research behind our Fractal Latent TES (FractLES) daily storage solutions based on phase changing materials (PCM).
- How TES contributes to smart and resilient thermal energy networks
- more...
Sign-up here to get the invitations and updates regarding the upcoming ThumbsUp knowledge exchange forums!
Upcomming KEFs and other events
KEF Recordings
240926 - RES Integration
During this KEF We explored how TES can overcome the challenges of intermittency and variability associated with renewables, enhancing grid stability and maximizing the utilization of clean energy sources.
Presenattion slides
231219 - Adsorption technologies
Gabriele Pernello of Sorption Technologies who explained to us how this eco-friendly cooling solution uses non-electric adsorption chillers that are powered by waste heat from 55°C, and the role they will play in the ThumbsUp TES solutions.
Presentation
251202 - TES Modeling and Integration
In this Knowledge Exchange Forum, we focused on the modelling and integration of innovative thermal energy storage (TES) solutions in the built environment, exploring how these systems can help balance the grid—one building at a time. For such solutions to make a real impact, they need to be easily integrable, yet every building is unique, which can make the modelling process a significant challenge, especially given the wide variety of available tools and methodologies.
Presentation available
240215 - Latent Storage TES (FractLES)
Adriano Sciacovelli, Associate Professor at the University of Birmingham introduced the general ThumbsUp approach to the development of this PCM based Daily TES technology.
250320 TES Enablers of Energy Valleys
During this Knowledge Exchange Forum (KEF), the potential impact and benefits of compact TES solutions in energy valleys and Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) have been examined. In collaboration with the REFORMERS project and the IEA’s HPT TCP Annex 61 "Heat pumps in Positive Energy Districts," the obstacles arising from connecting the PVT to the PCM-based TES and heat pump in a residential building have been addressed.
Presentation slides available here:
250909 -TES ranges
In collaboration with the LoCoMoSa project, this session explores the role of thermal energy storage (TES) in supporting renewable energy integration by storing excess energy for later use. From molten salts to phase change materials (PCM) and thermochemical materials (TCM), we highlight diverse temperature ranges, applications, and technology readiness levels (TRLs).
240215 - Latent Storage TES (FractLES)
Michele Santovito, co-founder of I-TES who will present the technology behind the prototype manufacturing and testing of the FractLES solution.
250409 - TES in Buildings
This session was hosted in collaboration with our sister project ECHO and Efficient Buildings Europe, focusing on how end-user perspectives are being embedded into solution development to ensure relevance, impact, and real-world applicability.