Innovative Iron-Based Technology for Safe and Sustainable Hydrogen Storage
Key Ideas
  • ETH Zurich researchers are utilizing iron-based technology to store hydrogen safely and affordably for seasonal energy storage.
  • The technology involves a chemical process similar to charging a battery, allowing for long-term storage with minimal energy loss.
  • The pilot plant on the Hönggerberg campus demonstrates the feasibility of the technology, aiming to provide sustainable winter electricity using solar power.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed an innovative technology for the seasonal storage of hydrogen using iron, aiming to address the challenges of fluctuating solar power availability. By leveraging the steam-iron process, excess summer solar power is used to produce hydrogen, which is then stored as elemental iron and water. The process can be reversed in winter to generate electricity or heat. This technology is cost-effective, as iron ore is abundantly available and the storage facility is reusable without special safety requirements. The researchers have conducted successful tests at a pilot plant in Zurich, showcasing the potential to store significant amounts of hydrogen for long periods. The technology is set to be expanded to meet a portion of the ETH Hönggerberg campus' winter electricity needs by 2026, demonstrating its scalability and sustainability. While hydrogen production efficiency remains a limitation, this iron-based storage solution offers a promising alternative for seasonal energy storage and could contribute to Switzerland's renewable energy goals.
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