THE USE OF BERMS IN THERMAL-ENERGY STORAGE-SYSTEMS - ENERGY-ECONOMIC ANALYSIS

The results are reported of an energy-economic analysis of the use of berms in thermal energy storage (TES) systems. The analysis compares t he initial cost savings derived from using a bermed tank instead of an in-ground tank, with the additional costs associated with the greater heat losses for the bermed tank over the life of the installation. Th e main factors considered include: (1) the increased excavation associ ated with an in-ground tank, (2) the increased wall structural support required for an in-ground tank, (3) the haulage and disposal of excav ated soil for an in-ground tank, compared with the haulage and disposa l or acquisition of soil for a bermed tank, (4) the forming of soil in to a berm, and (5) the increased heat loss associated with a bermed ta nk. In evaluating the last factor, the findings of previous studies ar e used by the author into the effects of berms on TES heat losses. As space for the berm is assumed available, the cost associated with any land additionally required: for the berm is neglected. The results ind icate that tanks having berms are, in most practical instances, econom ically superior to other tank configurations. (C) 1998 Elsevier Scienc e Ltd. All rights reserved.