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.
The Firm, Ice Energy, Makes Units of Various Sizes
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.