Thermal energy storage system

Abstract

A thermal energy storage system (1) comprises a heat storage unit (2) having a thermally insulated housing (3) containing a heating core (4) of thermal storage material, such as a plurality of thermal storage bricks (5). An electric heating element (7) is provided for heating the thermal storage bricks (5) forming the core (4) to a desired temperature. Heat extraction apparatus (10) is provided for extracting thermal energy from the core (4). The heat extraction apparatus (10) comprises a first air heat exchanger (11) connected to the core (4) to heat air in the first air heat exchanger (11). An air circulation pipe (12) is connected between the first air heat exchanger (11) and a compartment to be heated, such as an oven (14). An air circulation fan (15) is mounted in the air circulation pipe (12) between the air heat exchanger (11) and the compartment (14). A fan controller (16) is operable for controlling operation of the fan (15) to regulate temperature in the compartment (14).

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