In a groundbreaking collaboration, Finnish companies Tulikivi and Polar Night Energy are revolutionizing district heating systems with a fusion of traditional materials and innovative technology. By integrating crushed soapstone from Tulikivi’s quarries into Polar Night Energy’s Sand Battery, a novel thermal energy storage system, they are propelling sustainable energy solutions forward. This partnership, supported by Loviisan Lämpö and its parent company CapMan Infra, not only showcases Finland’s commitment to environmental sustainability but also sets a global precedent for efficient and eco-friendly district heating.
Enhancing Efficiency with Sand Battery Technology
The core of this pioneering initiative lies in the implementation of Sand Battery technology by Polar Night Energy. With a heating power of 1 MW and a storage capacity of up to 100 MWh of thermal energy, the Sand Battery is poised to meet Pornainen’s heating demands efficiently. Traditionally, sand has been the go-to material for such thermal energy storage systems.
However, the collaboration with Tulikivi introduces crushed soapstone as a superior alternative due to its exceptional heat conduction properties. This innovative shift not only enhances the efficiency of the Sand Battery but also reflects Tulikivi’s dedication to maximizing the utilization of raw materials. By leveraging soapstone’s unique qualities, the project achieves optimal performance while promoting sustainability in district heating.
Embracing Local Heritage and Circular Economy
The choice of soapstone as a key component in the Sand Battery underscores the project’s commitment to utilizing local, high-performance materials that support a circular economy. Soapstone holds significant cultural and historical importance in Finland, making its integration into modern energy solutions a testament to the country’s heritage.
Liisa Naskali from Polar Night Energy emphasizes the importance of material selection in achieving both cost-effectiveness and environmental sustainability. The collaboration between Tulikivi and Polar Night Energy not only showcases Finnish ingenuity but also sets a precedent for other regions to prioritize local resources and heritage in their sustainable development efforts.
To read more startup stories visit- finlandbusinesspress