Two sensible thermal energy storage (STES) systems in multiple chambers containing molten eutectic salts have been devised for use at temperatures above 565 C. For the first type, the thermal energy of low specific heat of an immiscible gaseous heat transfer fluid (HTF) at temperatures above 900 C. is readily converted to dispatchable heat of high specific heat in the molten eutectic salt liquid layers operating at high temperatures, which can again produce a gaseous HTF at a constant temperature of 700 C. or higher for the lower electricity generation capacities. For the second type, the molten eutectic salt liquids are used as a thermal energy storage (TES) medium and also a HTF at temperatures above 700 C. for the higher electricity generation capacities. These STES systems provide an effective cushion against the disturbances of heat supply from the sun.

Systems and methods are presented for enhancing energy production and storage by integrating solar energy with geothermal processes. In certain embodiments, a hybrid geothermal/solar system increases energy yield from a closed loop geothermal system, stores heat in a wellbore, enhances power generation from geothermal brine, and/or facilitates carbon dioxide sequestration or conversion to fuel, all preferably utilizing solar energy as a supplemental heat source.