Fall 2024

The FA24 Energy Storage team analyzed Cornell’s chilled water system to assess whether a thermal storage tank could address projected cooling demand from North Campus dorm renovations and expansion. The team identified that pipe capacity limits would not be able to support the projected chilled water demand.

The team built a Python/AMPL-based capacity expansion model using hourly demand data from 2022, along with system constraints and cost estimates. The goal was to minimize total costs, including both generator production and storage tank capacity costs. They estimated that a 330,000 gallon chilled water storage tank could help meet unmet demand by supplying cooling during peak periods.

They also compared this option to other approaches, like building an additional chiller or expanding pipe capacity. In addition, they looked at different tank designs (mixed/stratified) and reviewed similar projects at other universities.

Overall, they concluded that chilled water storage is technically possible, but recommended that Cornell do a more detailed cost-benefit analysis and refine assumptions.