Thermal energy storage–coupled heat pump systems: Review of configurations and modelling approaches

Heat pump systems (HP) are effective technologies for reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions for space heating and cooling of buildings. However, with large-scale deployment, increased electrical demands can place significant stress on power networks. Integrating Thermal Energy Storage (TES) with HP systems offers a viable strategy to mitigate peak power demands and enhance overall energy efficiency by decoupling heat generation and use, hence power intensive heat-generation can be shifted to off-peak and more efficient times. Due to these benefits, the combination of HP and TES systems have gained increasing attention. A number of reviews have examined specific HP-TES configurations and applications, however a comprehensive analysis of HP-TES coupled systems and particularly their modelling approaches remains limited. This paper classifies HP and TES technologies, highlighting their respective benefits and limitations. It further examines various HP-TES system configurations and applications, with a particular focus on modelling approaches. By providing a structured and comparative overview of available modelling methods, this review supports researchers and engineers in selecting the most suitable modelling approach based on system complexity, computational constraints, and specific objectives, facilitating the optimization of HP-TES systems for enhanced energy efficiency and sustainability. • A structured review of HP-TES configurations, applications, and impacts is presented. • Various modelling approaches for HP-TES systems are compared and evaluated. • Key modelling techniques, assumptions, and software tools are systematically reviewed. • The study helps researchers in selecting suitable modelling approaches based on their objectives. • Modelling with simulation tools enable system optimisation, but face high licensing costs, low flexibility, and accuracy issues.