The concept of using metal hydrides in cold storage modules is discussed. Refrigeration can be stored in such modules at ambient temperature for subsequent cooling applications. Analysis of a system based on ZrMnFe/LaNi5 is done for various operating conditions and its performance characteristics are presented. Optimum heat source temperatures to yield maximum COP are computed. In view of the high cost of hydrogen valves, cold storage module without hydrogen valve is also comparatively studied. © 2002 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd on behalf of the International Association for Hydrogen Energy.