THERMAL ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS FOR USE IN MATERIAL PROCESSING

An energy storage system (TES) converts variable renewable electricity (VRE) to continuous heat at over 900° C. Intermittent electrical energy heats a solid medium. Heat from the solid medium is delivered continuously on demand. Heat delivery via flowing gas establishes a thermocline which maintains high outlet temperature throughout discharge. The delivered heat which may be used for processes including power generation and cogeneration. In one application, thermal energy storage systems are used to improve efficiency and reduce carbon emissions associated with processing materials or other industrial applications.