What is the Heliac Project?
Heliac is driving the future of renewable energy through its innovative thermal batteries. At the heart of this groundbreaking project is RockStore—an electrified, medium-temperature thermal storage system capable of storing heat up to 300 °C using granite rocks in large steel tanks. This project leverages heat from diverse sources such as waste heat generated in industrial processes, heat produced from a Heliac solar field, or even excess renewable electricity. RockStore is exactly the heat storage solution that industries worldwide have been waiting for. It is designed to meet the growing demands of industrial processes that consume a significant portion of the world’s energy—targeting sectors like food and beverage, pulp and paper, and high-temperature district heating networks. The system’s ability to capture and store thermal energy up to 250 °C for direct industrial use stands out as one of its major assets.
Main Benefit
Key figures and facts about RockStore include:
- A fully operational system that can scale to at least 100 MWh capacity.
- Cost efficiency with levels around just 10–15 €/kWh – significantly lower than traditional batteries.
- Direct integration of solar power systems without the need for inverters, creating a truly local off-grid solution with minimal energy costs.
- The use of eco-friendly oil and standard heat exchangers for efficient charging and discharging operations.
- An operational temperature limit up to 300 °C, ensuring a balance between cost, efficiency, and safe material handling.
Technological Innovation in Thermal Storage
The Heliac project’s approach is characterized by its use of well-established components selected from reputable suppliers and the innovative use of natural stones, like granite, as the storage medium. It is impressive how the project manages to produce thermal energy in a manner that is both scalable and environmentally friendly. By avoiding complications associated with higher temperatures, the system is kept simple yet effective. The thermal storage technology not only minimizes reliance on fossil fuels but also taps into renewable energy potentials in a reliable and cost-effective manner. It may sound almost too good to be true, but the combination of natural materials and modern engineering ensures reliability.
Scalability and Versatility
RockStore’s design allows it to be fully integrated into a broad range of industrial applications. The system can be charged and discharged as needed, meaning it caters to real-time energy demands. In larger-scale setups, the thermal storage solution can be complemented by a steam turbine for power generation, making it even more versatile. Flexibility is a key element here—whether a factory is using waste heat or harvesting renewable energy, the project adapts effortlessly. This scalability is made possible by concentrating on tried-and-tested technology and ensuring that every component meets high-quality and cost-effectiveness targets.
Cost Efficiency and Future-proofing
A striking aspect of Heliac’s system is its cost efficiency. With operating costs far below those associated with fossil fuels, the RockStore solution opens up avenues for industries that aim to reduce both investment and operating expenditures. The technology allows for energy to be purchased as heat through Heat Purchase Agreements (HPA), which eliminates the need for heavy upfront investments. A casual glance at the numbers reveals that the strategic use of standard components, granite thermal storage, and the natural oil-based charging method results in a system that is not only future-proof but also capable of integrating seamlessly into existing renewable energy infrastructures. This is, without a doubt, a forward-thinking approach to industrial decarbonization.
Comprehensive Turnkey Solutions
Heliac’s commitment extends beyond just providing a reliable energy storage system. The project offers a complete suite of services—site assessments, distribution design, cabling, installation, testing, and project management—to ensure that every system gets up and running safely and on schedule. This turnkey approach minimizes technical and operational challenges. Moreover, the use of heat transfer fluids that do not freeze allows the system to maintain efficiency even in colder conditions. The attention to detail in every phase confirms the project’s determination to deliver a hassle-free and sustainable thermal storage solution that stands strong in the face of industrial demands.
Project Impact
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – providing a low-cost, renewable energy solution.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – enhancing industrial processes with scalable, advanced technology.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – promoting cleaner air and reduced reliance on fossil fuels.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – significantly reducing carbon emissions through decarbonization strategies.
Commitment to Industrial Decarbonization
The Heliac project is not merely an engineering feat but also a bold statement in support of industrial decarbonization. With the primary aim of reducing operational costs and environmental impact, RockStore capitalizes on the efficiency of thermal energy storage, promising an optimized energy supply when and where it is most needed. Industries across various sectors benefit from a solution that addresses both the functional and financial demands of a rapidly changing energy landscape. In a world where renewable energy integration is increasingly vital, RockStore offers a tailored, robust, and secure method of storing and delivering heat. This smart combination of natural and innovative approaches is a significant leap forward in converting renewable electricity into practical industrial heat, ultimately reinforcing the global transition to sustainable energy with every operational cycle.
