Hot technology: Energy storage via heat battery

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coreA new technology means that it is now possible to store renewable energy for long periods of time.

The Sorrel Heat Battery from Sorrel Technology replicates the way the earth’s core stores heat, to store large amounts of energy for anything from a few days to a few months.

The Sorrel Heat Battery’s metal core is heated to up to 1750 degrees Celsius by any energy source, and remains hot for many months. That heat can be used to create power when it is needed. As well as clean and safe, Sorrel says it is extremely cost-effective.

It uses innovative sold-state heat transfer technology to release the stored heat either to create steam, or to heat gases which in turn drive turbines, which then generate electricity.

Large-scale prototypes have been built and tested; and smaller prototypes are in development. The technology has been independently tested and verified by Anthony Morgan BSc, chief engineer and director of innovation at the Carbon Free Group.

“This is the first time ever it has been possible to store large amounts of energy in a readily reusable form. The applications for this technology are boundless,” said John Seneschall, a spokesperson for Sorrel Technology.  “It makes energy derived from solar and wind the energy of the future. It’s now a case of no sun, no wind, no problem. The Sorrel Heat Battery can store energy for months. At the flick of a switch it can be producing electricity as and when it’s needed, in the most environmentally sound way imaginable.”

The battery can be developed in different sizes: small units (for mobile uses); medium-sized units for domestic applications; and large units to power whole communities or businesses.

Find out more at www.sorreltechnology.com.

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