In a significant stride towards sustainable energy solutions, Magaldi Green Energy, in collaboration with Enel X, has introduced an innovative energy storage system known as Mgtes. This system is designed to address the challenges faced by industries that rely on high-temperature steam for production, traditionally powered by gas, with limited options for decarbonization. Mgtes offers a solution by storing energy from renewable sources or the grid using silicon, a simple sand substitute, instead of lithium batteries. The Mgtes system, a product of extensive research and numerous international patents, has been developed in partnership with the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Federico II, led by Professor Piero Salatino. Following the successful installation of a prototype at Magaldi's industrial facility in Buccino, a second Mgtes plant is under construction at the same site. This new plant, expected to be completed by 2025 with an investment of approximately 5 million euros, will provide entirely green high-temperature steam to the neighboring food company Igi, a supplier of vegetable oils to the Ferrero Group. This initiative is part of a strategic agreement signed in 2023 between Magaldi and Enel X to supply green thermal energy using the Mgtes system. The system being developed for Igi can absorb energy not only from a 2.5 MW photovoltaic plant but also from the electrical grid. This capability allows for the selection of low-cost energy hours, optimizing the costs of energy release and generation, and offering flexibility services to the electrical grid. The project includes the construction of a 2.5 MW photovoltaic plant and an 80-ton Mgtes system with a daily storage capacity of 8.6 MWh of thermal energy. This new storage system is expected to reduce Igi's total energy consumption by up to 20% and save up to 600 tons of CO2 annually. Mgtes technology addresses the dual need to replace gas for heat production in industrial processes and to overcome the intermittency of renewable sources, providing a tool for flexibility and balance to the electrical grid. This disruptive technology is capable of decarbonizing industrial processes requiring heat between 150° and 400°C, typical of industries such as food & beverage, paper, plastics, and chemicals, which currently rely heavily on fossil fuels. The new Magaldi plant was unveiled during an event at the Buccino facilities, coinciding with the international SolarPaces 2024 conference, attended by researchers, scientists, and representatives from institutional, industrial, and entrepreneurial sectors. Another Open Day is scheduled for Saturday, October 12. \'YYYWe believed in our ideas and the validity of our innovation, \'YYY stated Mario Magaldi, President of the group. \'YYYToday, the trends in decarbonization validate our efforts. Founded 95 years ago under the star of innovation, our company continues to develop reliable and sustainable solutions for industries globally. Italy has the resources and expertise to play a leading role in the energy transition process and, more importantly, in the cultural transition process that today demands the combination of competitiveness and environmental awareness.\'YYY Mgtes is the latest product from Magaldi, where research and investments have long been dedicated to designing green energy storage systems. Starting with the Stem, which attracted the attention of the Japanese giant Mitsubishi in recent years, the Magaldi Group, present in over 50 countries with operational offices in the United States, Mexico, the United Arab Emirates, India, and Australia, has filed 55 international patents.

Emerging Trends

The future of energy storage is likely to see a shift towards more sustainable and efficient solutions like Mgtes. As industries increasingly seek to reduce their carbon footprint, technologies that offer reliable and cost-effective alternatives to fossil fuels will gain prominence. The integration of such systems with smart grids could further enhance energy management and distribution, leading to a more resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure.

Insights

The Mgtes system represents a significant advancement in energy storage technology, particularly for industries that require high-temperature steam. By utilizing silicon instead of traditional lithium batteries, Mgtes offers a more sustainable and potentially less expensive solution. This innovation not only supports the decarbonization of industrial processes but also contributes to the stability and flexibility of the electrical grid.

Opportunities

1. Expansion into new markets: The Mgtes system could be adapted for use in various industries beyond food & beverage, such as pharmaceuticals and textiles, offering new business opportunities.

2. Collaboration with renewable energy providers: Partnering with solar and wind energy companies could enhance the system's efficiency and reach.

3. Development of smaller-scale systems: Creating compact versions of Mgtes could cater to smaller businesses and residential applications, broadening its market appeal.