What is electro-thermal energy storage in Malta?

Malta's electro-thermal energy storage system is built upon well-established principles in thermodynamics. When charging (taking electricity from the grid) the system converts electricity to heat, in molten salt, and as cold in a chilled liquid. In these forms, this energy can be efficiently stored for long durations.

How is energy stored in Malta?

Energy is gathered from wind, solar, or fossil generators on the grid as electrical energy and sent to Malta’s energy storage system. The electricity drives a heat pump, which converts electrical energy into thermal energy by creating a temperature difference. The heat is then stored in molten salt, while the cold is stored in a chilled liquid.

What is the Malta PHES energy storage system?

The Malta PHES energy storage system is built upon well-established principles in thermodynamics and uses conventional components that have been present in power plants for hundreds of years. Electricity from the grid is used to heat molten salt and cool a chilled liquid. In these forms, energy can be efficiently stored for long durations.

What materials are used in a Malta energy storage system?

All materials and components used in Malta’s system are fully recyclable and can be reclaimed after use. Common metals and alloys, like steel and aluminum, make up the bulk of the piping, turbines, and other mechanical equipment used in a Malta energy storage system. We Want To Hear From You!

Where can energy be stored?

Energy can be stored from any power generation source in any location. "Malta’s technology provides a 'like-for-like' replacement for fossil fuel plants in terms of size and performance."

Why do we need energy storage?

It presents an opportunity to capture and store this energy for use at a later, more valuable time of need, often correlating with when fossil resources would otherwise be dispatched.