Large Thermal Energy Storages – a Must for future-proof District Heating
Large thermal energy storages are a key enabler for heat transition. The keynote highlights the role of large thermal energy storages in the decarbonised district heating systems of the future. Besides different construction types and their properties, examples of built storages and their economics are given and current research topics are derived.
Speakers
Magdalena Berberich
Magdalena Berberich is working at Solites - Steinbeis Research Institute in Stuttgart since 2015 where she helds the positions of the Vice Executive Director since 2021. She studied energy and environmental technologies in Ansbach (B. Sc.) and sustainable energy competence in Stuttgart (M. Sc.). Berberich has expertise in large-scale solar thermal systems and the decarbonization of heat supply for district heating and large consumers. Her knowledge extends to sector coupling and innovative combined heat and power (CHP) systems, as well as the design and implementation of seasonal and multifunctional heat storages. She specializes in energy efficiency and the integration of renewable energy sources into sustainable heating systems. Additionally, she is experienced in developing simulation models and calculation tools, and she promotes energy-conscious behavior in all aspects of her work. Since 2022 till 2025 Magdalena Berberich serves as a subtask leader in IEA SHC Task 68. She is also a member of the Horizontal Working Group “100% Renewable Districts” within the European Technology and Innovation Platform. Additionally, she collaborates in the Working Group on Long-Term Heat Storage in Germany.