#Thailand #Rondo Energy #SCG Cleanergy #Saraburi

Introduction

In a significant advancement for renewable energy in Southeast Asia, Rondo Energy and SCG Cleanergy have launched the region's first industrial heat battery, operational at SCG's cement plant in Saraburi Province, Thailand. This innovative technology aims to streamline energy consumption while fostering a cleaner future in industrial processes.

The Inauguration Ceremony

The official unveiling occurred during a ribbon-cutting ceremony held at the SCG facility, with dignitaries and executives, including Rondo CEO Eric Trusiewicz, present to celebrate this pivotal milestone. Trusiewicz emphasized the tripartite importance of this development: it marks the introduction of heat battery technology in Southeast Asia, showcases a new modular sizing approach, and highlights the unique capability of this battery to deliver high-pressure steam for electricity generation.

Understanding the Heat Battery

The newly installed Rondo Heat Battery boasts a capacity to deliver 2.3 MWth of continuous steam. This steam, produced from electricity drawn from the power grid and a nearby floating solar farm, plays a crucial role in powering the cement production process. The unit generates continuous clean electricity, demonstrating Rondo’s commitment to integrating renewable energy systems into high-demand industrial environments.

The battery operates on a modular platform that can be customized from 33 MWh to over 1 GWh, showcasing flexibility in meeting diverse industrial needs. The use of mass-manufactured heating elements further optimizes the cost and time efficiencies, allowing the adaptation of units for various scales—from food production facilities to large chemical plants needing extensive thermal energy.

Local Collaboration for Global Impact

Importantly, the construction of this heat battery relied heavily on local suppliers, underscoring Rondo and SCG’s dedication to reinforcing local economies while promoting sustainable practices. This collaboration demonstrates how regional resources can be harnessed to develop advanced clean technologies, potentially setting a precedent for future projects.

SCG Cleanergy is not stopping here; they are already planning further projects powered by Rondo’s technology to meet the growing demand for clean industrial heat across Southeast Asia. The duo's efforts are pivotal to advancing industrial decarbonization within the region, contributing to a more sustainable energy landscape.

The Role of Heat Batteries in Modern Industry

This innovative heat battery is the only system globally currently capable of utilizing superheated steam to drive a steam turbine. As part of integrating this technology with the cement plant's existing heat recovery systems, it is poised to enhance energy efficiency in operations significantly.

The implications are vast. Eric Trusiewicz contended that this project illustrates the feasibility of transitioning to cleaner energy sources in industrial settings—both economically and efficiently. The ability to construct this pioneering system in merely eight months reflects the potential for rapid advancements in the sector, showcasing how industries globally could pivot towards electric solutions.

Strengthening Partnerships

As the demand for industrial decarbonization escalates, Rondo and SCG are poised to expand their manufacturing and deployment strategies to cater to this emerging market. This partnership positions Thailand as a formidable player in the global clean-heat manufacturing industry, highlighting the necessity of collaborative efforts between corporations to effect meaningful change.

Attapong Sathitmanothum, CEO of SCG Cleanergy, acknowledged this integration as a pivotal shift for heat-intensive industries in Southeast Asia, stating the long-term vision of SCG focuses on inclusive green growth while supporting regional businesses in their decarbonization efforts.

Conclusion

This launch is not merely a technical achievement; it marks a significant step in realizing a low-carbon economy in Southeast Asia. By leveraging innovative technologies like the Rondo Heat Battery, Thailand can set a standard for sustainable practices in industrial operations, demonstrating that the transition towards clean energy can indeed be both practical and economically viable.