The brewing process typically requires gas boilers to generate large amounts of steam, often resulting in significant pollution. To address this issue, brewer Heineken previously...AnnounceThe company will collaborate with thermal battery technology company Rondo and power company EDP to introduce a new 100MWh thermal battery system at its winery in Lisbon, Portugal. The goal is to generate the steam needed for winemaking using renewable energy, thereby significantly reducing carbon emissions.
Rondo thermal battery technology: refractory brick thermal storage, 7MW scale steam supply 24 hours a day
The operating principle of a thermal battery differs from that of a conventional battery that stores electricity; instead, it utilizes materials such as ceramics to store and release "heat energy." The Rondo Heat Battery (RHB) system to be used by the Heinegen Lisbon Brewery employs refractory bricks as the heat storage medium.
This system will be powered by solar energy within the plant area, as well as renewable electricity from EDP. The electrical energy will be converted into high-temperature heat energy stored in refractory bricks, and then the heat energy will be converted into steam required for the brewing process.
The system is expected to provide 7 MW of steam output, enough to operate the entire brewery 24/7.
A first in the European beverage industry, solving the problem of electrifying high-temperature steam.
The system is expected to go live in April 2027, at which time it will become one of the largest thermal battery systems in the European beverage industry.
This collaboration is considered a significant milestone for the industry, as "high-temperature steam" is considered one of the most difficult industrial processes to decarbonize using electricity. This project is not only a key step for Heineken to achieve its net-zero carbon emissions target by 2040, but also contributes to the Portuguese government's national goal of reducing greenhouse gas pollution by 55% by 2030.
EDP is responsible for operations and operates under a "hands-off" model.
In terms of operation, the system will adopt a "hands-off" model, with EDP responsible for system construction and daily operation, while Rondo will provide the core battery technology.
"This initiative not only helps us reduce our reliance on traditional energy sources, but also demonstrates pragmatic innovation and strong partnerships, and brings meaningful improvements to the supply chain," said Magne Setnes, Vice President of Heineken.
