Introduction

As part of the NYSERDA NextGen Building Innovation Program, Sunamp installed its PCM heat batteries in a home in Montauk, NY, to optimize solar thermal energy use and minimize reliance on an oil-fired boiler during colder months. This project aligns with New York State’s commitment to achieving an 85% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, demonstrating the potential of thermal storage to accelerate clean energy adoption in residential settings.

The home, occupied by two adults, previously used a solar thermal system for summer domestic hot water (DHW) and an oil-fired boiler for winter. By introducing Sunamp’s Thermino thermal storage, the project delivered significant environmental and economic benefits.

• Seasonal dependence on an oil-fired boiler for winter DHW needs.
• Underutilization of solar thermal energy during peak production periods.

The heat from the solar thermal array was previously stored in a 120-gallon indirect storage tank with backup provided by an oil-fired boiler with a 40-gallon indirect storage tank.