Energy storage in buildings - a technology overview BG73 2018
BSRIA (Building Services Research and Information Association) is a non-profit distributing, member-based association, that describes its mission as ‘to make buildings better...’ by enabling ‘…the building services and construction industries and their clients to enhance the value of the built environment, by improving the quality of their products and services, the efficiency of their provision and the effectiveness of their operation.’
In February 2018, BSRIA published Energy storage in buildings - a technology overview (BG73/2018), a 58-page guide written by John Piggott.
It comes at a timely moment, when the built environment is going through changes that are unprecedented in their speed and impact, with smarter and more efficient use of energy being one of the key dimensions of that change, and energy storage one of its main components.
The guide provides an illustrated overview of the options available for energy storage in buildings, for use in heating, cooling, hot water and ventilation, as well as for appliances, lighting and other equipment.
It explains the fundamental principles of energy storage and describes the main system types and forms that they take. It familiarises the reader with the science behind the different types of energy storage, although it is not intended to be a science or engineering textbook. It is aimed at designers, facilities managers and occupiers.
Case studies illustrate how different energy storage technologies have been applied in the past so that readers can appreciate some of the practicalities involved and gain an understanding of how mature different systems are. In particular, battery storage systems have received a great deal of media coverage recently, and an example of this is included.
The guide is structured into two main sections, dealing with thermal and electrical energy respectively. Subsections address the main types of technology and the applications to which they are put.
--BSRIA
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Battery energy storage systems with grid-connected solar photovoltaics BR 514.
- Battery storage.
- BSRIA.
- BSRIA articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- Creating a smarter, more flexible energy system.
- Energy harvesting.
- Energy storage.
- Energy storage - the missing piece?
- Fuel cell.
- Sustainable development: energy challenge.
Featured articles and news
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.