This idea is so simple that it just might catch on.
The ICE process uses excess electrical energy produced during off-peak times to make ice in a freezer. Then, during peak hours, run air across the ice to cool a building.
This approach shaves peaks and saves energy. It can also help make solar and wind turbine energy sources more feasible by helping with the renewables storage problem, discussed in a previous post. It sure makes a heck of a lot more sense than unproven technologies such as oil-from-algae or carbon sequestration.
Companies are already selling these devices, and there’s a plan afoot to install a rather large ICE system in California, as described here.