Energy storage night

What makes polar night energy sand-based heat storage system so important?

Simulation image of natural convection effects through ductwork inside the sand storage vessel. The sheer scale of Polar Night Energy’s sand-based heat storage system makes simulation software indispensable. “We cannot possibly build full-size prototypes to test all of our ideas.

Where are polar night energy's heat storage systems located?

Polar Night Energy's heat storage systems are currently installed in the cities of Tampere and Kankaanpää. To meet the challenge of climate change, many governments and organizations are investing in new technology to help lessen the use of fossil fuels, including Polar Night Energy.

Why is energy storage necessary?

The intermittent nature of daylight and strong winds creates a challenge. Energy storage is necessary to maintain steady power output throughout the peaks and valleys of renewable inputs. Polar Night Energy designs a sand-based heat storage system at COMSOL.

Can polar night energy heat buildings all night?

In a region known for long, dark winter nights, Polar Night Energy is building a system in the city of Tampere that can heat buildings with stored solar energy — all day, all night, and all winter long. The apparent contradictions do not end there.

How does polar night energy sand battery work?

Polar Night Energy's sand battery stores heat for use weeks or even months later. It works by converting the captured renewable electricity into hot air by using an industrial version of a standard resistive heating element, then directing the hot air into the sand.

How does polar night energy work?

A schematic of the components and operating cycle of the Polar Night Energy system. Inside the system, electrically powered resistive heating elements heat air to more than 600°C. The hot air is circulated through a network of pipes inside a sand-filled heat storage vessel.