Image: Polar Night Energy
A 100MWh thermal energy storage project, utilizing Polar Night Energy's innovative "Sand Battery" technology, is under development in Pornainen, Finland, for district heating operator Loviisan Lämpö.
This project builds on an earlier 8MWh system launched in 2022.
The system uses 2,000 tons of crushed soapstone, a byproduct from fireplace manufacturer Tulikivi, known for its excellent heat retention properties. Electricity heats the soapstone, storing thermal energy that is later discharged for heating or industrial use.
The project boasts a capacity of 1MW/100MWh, delivering heat to Loviisan's district network, which serves several towns, including Loviisa and Pukkila.
Currently, installation work is underway, with commissioning expected in 2025. Business Finland has supported the initiative, emphasizing sustainability and circular economy aspects.
“The Sand Battery will significantly reduce the combustion-based energy used in our district heating network, and the collaboration with Tulikivi has added a valuable circular economy aspect to this project,” said Loviisan Lämpö CEO Mikko Paajanen.
Polar Night Energy CEO Tommi Eronen added: “The filling process went even better than we expected, and everything was completed on schedule. We implemented some unique solutions to accommodate the material properties and learned a lot in the process. Working with Tulikivi has been a very positive experience.”
Loviisan Lämpö supplies heating to Loviisa, Pukkila, Pornainen, Pyhtää Siltakylä, the Pyhtää village centre, and Lappohja.
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