Harnessing thermal energy storage for industrial efficiency

Revolutionizing energy use in industry

The industrial sector has long been a cornerstone of global economies, yet it faces a critical challenge: the need to decarbonize and enhance energy efficiency. Enter Kyoto's Heatcube—an innovative thermal energy storage solution that is transforming the way industries utilize energy. At the heart of this transformation is KALL Ingredients in Hungary, where Heatcube is setting a new standard for sustainable industrial energy use. 

The role of Heatcube in decarbonization

Kyoto's Heatcube is leading the charge in the decarbonization of industrial processes. By replacing traditional natural gas supplies with sustainable steam generation, Heatcube at KALL Ingredients aims to cut CO2 emissions by up to 8,000 tons annually. This significant reduction is achieved through a sophisticated system that utilizes high-temperature molten salts to store and release thermal energy. Heatcube's role extends beyond mere emission reduction; it actively supports Hungary's grid by serving as a flexible asset that can adapt to fluctuating renewable energy supplies. This adaptability ensures that industries can maintain production efficiency while contributing to a greener planet.

Understanding thermal energy storage

Thermal energy storage is a game-changing technology that allows for the efficient capture and release of heat energy. Unlike traditional energy storage solutions, which often focus solely on electricity, thermal energy storage provides a reliable way to store heat generated from renewable sources. Heatcube leverages this technology by utilizing molten salts, known for their high volumetric heat capacity, to store thermal energy. This enables industries to access a stable supply of heat (steam), even when renewable energy sources like solar and wind are inconsistent. The result is a seamless integration of renewable energy into industrial processes, enhancing both efficiency and sustainability.

Benefits of molten salt technology

The choice of molten salts as the medium for thermal energy storage in Heatcube offers numerous advantages. Firstly, molten salts have a high heat capacity, allowing them to store large amounts of heat in a compact space. This makes them particularly suitable for industrial applications where space is often at a premium. Additionally, molten salts remain in a liquid state throughout the storage cycle, ensuring an easy flow and handling. Their proven effectiveness and cost-efficiency make molten salts a competitive option in today's energy market. Heatcube's use of this technology underscores Kyoto's commitment to providing reliable, sustainable, and economically viable energy solutions for industries.

Collaborative efforts for a sustainable future

The success of this Heatcube project at KALL Ingredients is a testament to the power of collaboration. Kyoto has partnered with financial and energy trading experts, such as Kyotherm and Energiabörze Kft, to bring this solution to fruition. By working together, Kyoto has been able to successfully implement its Heat-as-a-Service (HaaS) model that not only provides sustainable energy but also sets a precedent for future industrial collaborations. This partnership demonstrates how collective efforts can drive significant progress towards a more sustainable industrial landscape.

Significant milestones in project implementation

The journey to implementing Heatcube at KALL Ingredients has been marked by several key milestones. The project began with the signing of a commercial contract in November 2023, followed by comprehensive on-site planning and engineering reviews in early 2024. By April, the concrete foundation was laid, and by June, the steel structure was erected. The installation of critical components, such as the steam generator and molten salt tanks, was completed by August 2024. These milestones highlight the meticulous planning and execution required to bring such an innovative project to life.

Future prospects of thermal energy storage

Looking ahead, the future prospects of thermal energy storage are incredibly promising. As industries worldwide seek to reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency, solutions like Heatcube will become increasingly vital. The scalability and adaptability of thermal energy storage make it an ideal choice for a diverse range of industrial applications. Our commitment to innovation and sustainability ensures that Heatcube will continue to evolve, meeting the needs of industries as they navigate the challenges of the green transition. With Heatcube technology, the vision of a sustainable industrial future is not just attainable—it's already underway.