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An intensive review of ORC-based pumped thermal energy storage

Author

Listed:
  • Li, Wei
  • Wang, Siyi
  • Xu, Shengguan
  • Wang, Qiuwang
  • Markides, Christos N.

Abstract

This paper provides an intensive review of a typical Carnot battery (CB): Rankine cycle-based pumped thermal energy/electricity storage (PTES), focusing on their development, integration strategies, and performance across diverse energy systems. Rankine-PTES leverages the principle of the organic Rankine cycle (ORC) to offer novel means of energy conversion and storage, enhancing the dispatchability of renewable energy. The review systematically evaluates the current state-of-the-art in ORC-PTES (RCB) technology, with a particular emphasis on its integration with low-grade heat sources and renewable energy systems. It critically analyzes thermodynamic, economic, and environmental performance indicators, supported by techno-economic optimization frameworks that reconcile cost, efficiencies, and carbon footprint across multi-energy scenarios. Additionally, it delves into various thermal energy storage (TES) methods applicable to RCBs, offering detailed comparisons to identify optimal configurations for different scenarios. This paper bridges the gap between theoretical concepts and practical implementations, providing valuable insights for researchers and policymakers involved in advanced energy storage systems. Furthermore, the study explores innovative configurations such as the reversible RCB and dual-function machines that can serve as compressors during charging and expanders during discharging, simplifying system design and reducing costs. A multi-scale analysis of working fluids (WFs), TES modalities, and RCB systems is conducted, elucidating their interdependencies and operational dynamics. The prospective strategies, including interdisciplinary collaborations, policy-driven incentives, and innovations in WF usage, TES modes, and system integration, are outlined. Future pathways highlight the potential of RCBs in industrial waste heat recovery, decentralized energy systems, and grid-level applications. Ultimately, this work provides a perspective on transitioning RCB systems from lab-scale prototypes to market-ready levels, advancing long-term and large-scale technologies.

Suggested Citation

  • Li, Wei & Wang, Siyi & Xu, Shengguan & Wang, Qiuwang & Markides, Christos N., 2025. "An intensive review of ORC-based pumped thermal energy storage," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 330(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:330:y:2025:i:c:s036054422502434x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.136792
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