The project aims to develop and exploit an innovative high-temperature heat storage device based on cost effective solid-state storage elements, potentially produced from industrial by-products such as red mud from aluminium production. These ceramic elements can withstand high temperatures and repeated thermal cycling, enabling long service life and low maintenance costs. The system can be charged with industrial waste heat or surplus renewable electricity and later provide heat for buildings, industrial processes, or electricity generation via a thermal power cycle.

The concept combines the advantages of sensible and latent heat storage. While sensible storage is robust and inexpensive but limited in energy density, latent storage offers higher capacity but often suffers from corrosion and maintenance issues. The patented approach, covered by patent PCT/EP2024/074102, combines ceramic storage elements with latent materials such as liquid metals. This enables high energy densities while preventing direct contact between molten material and plant components, thereby reducing corrosion risks and operating costs. In an advanced version, the metallic latent storage material is directly electrically contacted and acts as a resistance heater, generating heat inside the storage unit itself.

The market potential is significant. The storage circuits could be integrated into industrial processes with high heat demand, reducing energy costs and CO₂-related expenses. Target costs of below 1,200 €/kW and 10-20 €/kWh could make the technology competitive for baseload electricity generation and long-duration energy storage. With Europe’s energy-shifting demand expected to reach 200 GW by 2030 and over 600 GW by 2050, the potential market value could reach €600–1,200 billion.

The next step is prototype testing under real operating conditions to validate performance, identify implementation challenges, and refine the product design. Exploitation could occur through licensing of the concept, engineering design, layout, operating data, and patent portfolio, or through the creation of a dedicated spin-off company.