Kyoto Group Launches Major Thermal Energy Storage for Industry
Kyoto Group has taken a significant step towards sustainability and industrial decarbonization by inaugurating a state-of-the-art thermal energy storage system at KALL Ingredients’ facility. This location marks the unveiling of the second Heatcube system across Europe, which is recognized as the world’s largest industrial thermal energy storage solution.
The impressive Heatcube capacity of 56 MWh is projected to supply over 30 GWh of clean process heat every year. This innovative approach is pivotal in replacing traditional natural gas usage, which in turn is expected to reduce CO? emissions significantly — up to 8,000 tons annually.
Morten Bülow, CEO of Kyoto Group, expressed enthusiasm for this development, stating, "This advancement presents tremendous opportunities in clean, low-cost industrial heat supply. By employing our Heat-as-a-Service model, we’re able to provide KALL Ingredients with affordable steam that is not only reliable but also free from emissions, thereby enhancing the energy grid's flexibility in the region."
Significance of the KALL Facility
The KALL Ingredients facility stands as one of the newest and most advanced corn processing plants in Europe. Capable of processing an impressive 530,000 tons of corn annually, it specializes in producing various starches utilized in food, paper, and industrial sectors, alongside alcohol for both pharmaceutical and food industries, sweeteners, and ingredients for animal feed.
Maarten Welten, Managing Director of KALL Ingredients, highlighted the commitment to sustainable practices, saying, "Sustainability remains at the core of our operations. Kyoto's Heatcube ensures a stable, cost-efficient, and clean supply of process heat, which is instrumental in reducing our energy costs and ultimately moving towards a complete reliance on renewable energy sources."
Unveiling the Innovative Heat-as-a-Service Model
Kyoto Group’s Heatcube at KALL was made possible through strategic collaboration with Kyotherm, the majority investor, and Energiabörze, who provided energy trading expertise and minority investment. Under a comprehensive 15-year Heat-as-a-Service agreement facilitated through a specialized Hungarian vehicle, this partnership reinforces the commitment towards greener energy solutions.
Arnaud Susplugas, CEO of Kyotherm, commented on the transformative impact of thermal energy storage systems like Heatcube, stating, "This technology illustrates how industries can pursue decarbonization while simultaneously adding value to the electricity grid. With the anticipated rise of intermittent renewable energy, innovations like Heatcube are set to profoundly influence the energy landscape in the years to come."
Flexibility and Market Integration
The Heatcube at KALL Ingredients is not just an energy storage solution but also an active player in flexibility markets. It utilizes available renewable energy to supply steam essential for various industrial applications. According to András Vinkovits, Chairman of Energiabörze, "The expansion of renewables in Hungary necessitates flexible storage solutions. With Heatcube operational, we can engage robustly in reserve markets, thereby lowering costs for industries."
Celebration of Innovation at Thermal Energy Day
The inauguration event coincided with Thermal Energy Day, a special gathering organized by Kyoto Group. Thought leaders and representatives from prominent companies convened to discuss the future of industrial heat in Budapest. This event featured insights from industry experts, who addressed the role of innovative heating solutions in driving sustainability forward.
Understanding the Technology Behind Heatcube
Kyoto Group's Heatcube stands out with its modular design, enabling industrial clients to obtain cost-effective, renewable thermal energy. The system heats molten salt to over 400°C using intermittent renewable energy, storing energy in a range of 39 MWh to 104 MWh, while delivering impressive discharge power of up to 14 MW. The stored heat is then released as high-temperature steam for various industrial processes.
About Kyoto Group
Kyoto Group is recognized as a pioneer in thermal battery technology, dedicated to reducing the carbon footprint of industrial heat production. With industrial heat generation accounting for a daunting 40% of global carbon emissions, Kyoto Group’s innovative Heatcube presents a revolutionary solution. This technology is designed to capture and harness renewable energy efficiently, converting it into heat for steam generation in industrial sectors. Established in 2016, Kyoto Group operates from locations in Oslo and Seville and is supported by Glentra, a prominent Danish energy fund committed to driving the green transition through advanced decarbonization strategies.
About KALL Ingredients Kft.
KALL Ingredients Kft. is a leading player in the corn processing industry in Hungary, recognized for its advanced technology and operations. With a significant investment of 145 million €, KALL processes up to 530,000 tons of NON-GMO corn annually, serving over 200 customers across more than 25 nations. Their products—including liquid sugars, pharmaceutical-grade alcohols, and animal feeds—are renowned for their quality and sustainability.
About Kyotherm
Kyotherm is a dedicated Energy-as-a-Service investment firm focused on renewable heating projects globally. With a diverse portfolio that includes solar thermal, biomass, geothermal systems, and energy-efficient solutions, Kyotherm plays a critical role in optimizing energy consumption and promoting sustainability across several nations.
About Energiabörze Kft.
Energiabörze is pivotal in Hungary’s energy market, providing innovative trading solutions that seamlessly integrate renewable sources into the grid. Their extensive trading activities support the integration of various energy solutions, optimizing performance in the evolving energy landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Heatcube?
The Heatcube is designed for efficient thermal energy storage, providing clean process heat to industrial facilities while reducing carbon emissions.
How much CO? does the Heatcube help to reduce?
It helps to eliminate up to 8,000 tons of CO? emissions annually by replacing natural gas usage.
What kind of partnership was involved in the Heatcube project?
Kyoto Group partnered with Kyotherm for investment and Energiabörze for energy trading in a collaborative Heat-as-a-Service model.
What does the Heat-as-a-Service model involve?
This model provides companies with energy solutions that offer reliable, affordable, and emission-free steam while enhancing flexibility in energy usage.
Where is Kyoto Group headquartered?
Kyoto Group operates from Oslo, Norway, and Seville, Spain, focusing on sustainable industrial energy innovations.
