New Delhi, Sept. 17 -- As temperatures rise and energy costs keep climbing, air conditioning is drawing new attention from scientists. One solution shifting into focus is thermal energy storage, commonly known as "ice batteries." The idea is to make ice using salt hydrates during the night when power demand is low and then use the stored cold to cool buildings through the day. According to the Washington Post, a banking tower in Manhattan produces enough ice every night to chill "three million margaritas." Economic benefits are clear. CBS News says Eleven Madison Park's system, developed by Trane Technologies, leads to cooling cost reductions of up to 40%.

The impact could be significant. According to the International Energy Agency, abo...