Process heat and thermal storage comparator

Define the service boundary, then check every constraint. Built-in values are resettable fictional teaching examples; results prepare further review.

Process heat pathway screen

Compare one useful heating duty across direct electric heat, heat pumps and directly charged TES. Check temperature, source, power, storage and charging before comparing energy costs.

Inputs and calculation stay in this browser. Drafts are stored locally only when you save. Reports contain your inputs; review them before sharing. The enquiry transfers a short summary only and still requires a separate submission.

Project reference (optional)

1. Define the common service

Useful process heat rate (MW_th)Continuous heat duty duration (h)Required minimum process delivery temperature (°C)Net electrical import headroom during direct delivery (MW_e)Delivery-period electricity price per MWh_eBaseline fuel-to-useful-heat efficiency (%)Baseline fuel price per MWh_fuelFuel price and boiler efficiency must share the same LHV/HHV convention.Common price currency

2. Enter comparable quotations or pathways

Direct heat example

Pathway nameSupply pathwayGuaranteed minimum useful delivery temperature (°C)After the relevant process exchanger; not the hottest material temperature.Validated useful heat output limit (MW_th)Useful conversion ratio (direct/TES fraction, or heating COP)For direct heat/TES use 0–1 (e.g. 0.98); for a heat pump use a validated COP at the actual condition.Performance, source/temperature, timing and price evidenceI have checked these conditions at the process boundary, including source/flow, auxiliaries, timing and price scope.

Study the calculation background Data request and evidence check

Sources and review date

Reviewed 26 October 2026. Text, diagrams and exercises are original. All numerical cases use stated teaching assumptions, rather than site measurements or manufacturer commitments. These primary sources support the technical background; verify their applicability to each project.

[H1] ARENA / HILT CRC · TES for Industrial Process Heat: A Practical Guide (2026) ↗
Integrated assessment of process heat and thermal storage.

[H2] IEA · How a Heat Pump Works ↗
Heat-source, useful-output and COP concepts.

[H3] IEA · Heat Pump Monitor 2026: Key Findings ↗
Industrial integration, temperature and economic context.

[H4] DOE · Industrial Heat Pumps for Steam and Fuel Savings ↗
Foundational engineering explanation; not a current local approval rule.