In a groundbreaking move towards sustainable energy solutions, a massive sand battery is set to transform the energy landscape of a Finnish town. Located in Pornainen, southern Finland, this industrial-scale storage unit is poised to become the world’s largest sand battery, capable of storing 100 MWh of thermal energy generated from solar and wind sources. Developed by Polar Night Energy, the sand battery represents a significant leap towards reducing carbon emissions in the region. By enabling residents to eliminate oil from their district heating network, the innovative technology is expected to cut emissions by nearly 70 percent, marking a crucial step towards a greener future. The concept of sand batteries, pioneered by Polar Night Energy’s founders Tommi Eronen and Markku Ylönen, offers an affordable and efficient solution for storing excess electricity generated by renewable sources. By harnessing the heat from solar and wind energy and storing it in low-grade sand, the battery can retain heat at around 500°C for several months, providing a reliable source of energy during winter months. The sand battery works through resistive heating, where heat is generated by the friction created when an electrical current passes through the sand. This stored heat is then circulated through a heat exchanger, warming water in the district heating network and benefiting homes, offices, and public facilities. With the successful implementation of the sand battery in Pornainen, residents can look forward to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy supply. The integration of this innovative technology with the district heating network of Loviisan Lämpö signifies a significant shift towards cleaner energy production in the area. As the world continues to prioritize renewable energy solutions, the sand battery in Finland stands as a shining example of how innovative technologies can drive progress towards a more sustainable future, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and paving the way for a greener tomorrow.
Date: 10/03/2024
