#Portugal #Lisbon #Heineken #Rondo Energy #EDP

A Sustainable Alliance: HEINEKEN, Rondo Energy, and EDP

In a landmark move towards sustainability in the beverage industry, HEINEKEN has partnered with Rondo Energy and EDP to deploy the world’s largest heat battery at its Central de Cervejas e Bebidas Brewery in Lisbon, Portugal. This innovative project, featuring a 100 MWh Rondo Heat Battery (RHB), aims to revolutionize how breweries operate by providing continuous, renewable steam powered by solar energy.

The initiative is integral to HEINEKEN's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and achieving sustainability goals outlined in its "Brew a Better World" strategy. With a vision to decarbonize its production sites by 2030 and reach net zero by 2040, the partnership with Rondo and EDP serves as a crucial step in that direction.

How the Rondo Heat Battery Works

The Rondo Heat Battery functions by converting and storing intermittent electricity into high-temperature heat, thereby generating safe, zero-carbon steam. This system is designed to seamlessly provide 7 MW of steam required for brewing operations, significantly diminishing reliance on traditional fossil-fueled boilers. Unlike conventional systems, the steam produced is identical in its utility to that generated by fossil fuels but comes without associated carbon emissions.

Magne Setnes, HEINEKEN’s Chief Supply Chain Officer, emphasized the efficiency unlocked by this collaboration, highlighting how leveraging solar energy through innovative technology could drastically transform operational practices. The heat battery not only supports brewing processes but also aligns with the ambitious decarbonization plans of Portugal, contributing to the country’s target of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030.

A Model for Future Changes

As industries increasingly seek ways to cut emissions, the Rondo Heat Battery stands out as a transformative solution. It charges using low-cost, renewable energy, enabling industries to transition away from fossil fuels without compromising their operational capabilities. This not only fosters environmental sustainability but also enhances economic efficiencies—essential elements for modern businesses.

The deployment of this advanced technology under the Heat-as-a-Service model eliminates operational complexities for HEINEKEN, providing a turnkey solution that integrates heat storage, renewable energy supply, and grid optimization. By leveraging local, renewable energy resources, this system exemplifies how innovative partnerships can lead to practical solutions for pressing environmental challenges.

The Role of European Investment and Support Symbols

This groundbreaking project receives backing from the European Investment Bank (EIB) and Breakthrough Energy Catalyst, who together announced a €75 million investment in 2024 aimed at scaling Rondo’s heat battery technology across Europe. This collaboration illustrates the vital role of public-private partnerships in fostering innovative energy solutions that benefit both the environment and industry.

Karl Nehammer, EIB Vice President, reiterated the importance of projects like this in boosting Europe’s industrial competitiveness while committing to decarbonization. Similarly, Mario Fernandez from Breakthrough Energy Catalyst underscored the project’s role in providing reliable, renewable heat to industries during a critical period of transition.

Harnessing Solar Power for a Sustainable Future

As global energy landscapes evolve, particularly in sunny regions like Iberia, the unique advantages of solar electricity become increasingly clear. With predictions indicating that, by 2030, many countries could experience significantly reduced wholesale electricity costs during sunny periods, Rondo's Heat Battery capitalizes on this potential, storing electricity during peak generation times.

By converting this stored energy into continuous heating and steam, industries can greatly lower their operational costs while supporting a shift toward cleaner energy solutions. The deployment of the Rondo Heat Battery is only the beginning for HEINEKEN, as it sets a precedent for other sectors, including food processing and pharmaceuticals, to adopt similar sustainable practices.

Conclusion: Pioneering Sustainable Industrial Practices

Through this collaboration, HEINEKEN, Rondo Energy, and EDP are not only leading the charge toward cleaner industrial processes but also providing a model for future initiatives that prioritize sustainability. As Eric Trusiewicz, CEO of Rondo Energy, notes, Iberia is poised to become Europe's gateway for cost-competitive clean energy. This partnership marks a significant chapter in the ongoing quest for climate-friendly and economically viable industrial solutions, showing that with innovation and collaboration, a sustainable future is within reach.