| Abstract: | An economic-engineering simulation model was developed to examine the economic feasibilities of using thermal energy storage systems to help cool commercial-scale buildings under time-of-use (TOU) electricity rates. The analysis results showed that the financial viability of thermal energy systems would be greatly enhanced under TOU rates. The simulation analysis also revealed that the results would be significantly affected by various parameters, such as the length of on-peak period, capital costs, building size and configuration, space availability, and weather conditions. |
