Finnish Startup to Test Innovative Sand Battery This Winter

• Get ready for an energy revolution! Polar Night Energy's Sand Battery is set to harness renewable heat this winter, transforming local sustainability in Pornainen.

Polar Night Energy, a Finnish startup, is preparing to test its innovative Sand Battery technology in Pornainen this winter, with plans for commissioning next year. This system stores renewable electricity as heat using crushed soapstone, a by-product from local firm Tulikivi's fireplace production. Construction is progressing well, with 2,000 tonnes of soapstone already in place.

Once operational, the Sand Battery will act as the primary thermal energy source for local district heating, delivering 1 MW of power with a capacity for 100 MWh. The initiative aims to significantly cut reliance on combustion-based energy, enhancing sustainability through circular economy practices, and is financially supported by Business Finland.

How will Polar Night Energy's Sand Battery transform local heating and sustainability efforts?

• Harnessing Renewable Energy: Polar Night Energy's Sand Battery offers an innovative solution for storing excess renewable electricity generated during peak production times, particularly from wind and solar sources. This capability helps stabilize the local energy grid by allowing for the use of solar and wind energy, even during low production periods.
• Efficient Heat Storage: The use of crushed soapstone enables effective heat retention, allowing the Sand Battery to store significant amounts of thermal energy for long periods. This efficient heat storage means that energy can be utilized when demand is high, thus optimizing energy use and minimizing waste.
• Enhancing Local District Heating: Once operational, the Sand Battery will provide heat for district heating systems, supplying residential and commercial buildings in Erotis with a reliable, low-emission alternative to traditional heating methods. This shift is crucial in reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with combustible fuels.
• Economic Impact: By using locally sourced materials and enabling the integration of renewable energy into heating solutions, the Sand Battery is expected to stimulate the local economy. The creation of jobs in construction, maintenance, and operation of the facility, along with potential future expansions, would further contribute to economic growth.
• Support for Circular Economy: By utilizing soapstone—a by-product of Tulikivi's fireplace production—the Sand Battery exemplifies circular economy principles. This approach reduces waste while promoting sustainability by transforming by-products into valuable resources for energy storage.
• Reducing Carbon Footprint: The Sand Battery is projected to reduce the community's overall carbon footprint by minimizing reliance on fossil fuels for heating. This is particularly significant in temperate regions where heating demand is high, especially during winter months.
• Pilot for Future Projects: The successful implementation and operation of the Sand Battery in Pornainen may serve as a model for other regions seeking sustainable heating solutions. Its potential scalability could inspire similar projects, contributing to broader national and global sustainability goals.
• Community Engagement and Education: The project can serve as an educational tool, raising awareness within the community about the importance of renewable energy and innovative technologies. Workshops or informational sessions could be offered to share knowledge about the benefits of energy storage and district heating systems.
• Improvement of Energy Security: By diversifying the energy sources utilized for heating, the Sand Battery enhances energy security in the region. This reduction in dependency on imported fossil fuels fortifies the local energy supply chain against potential market fluctuations.
• Future Development Potential: The technology behind the Sand Battery is ripe for further research and development, paving the way for advancements in thermal energy storage. As more data becomes available from its operation in Pornainen, further innovations could enhance efficiency and lower costs for similar projects worldwide.