Rondo Energy has announced the commercial commissioning of its 100 megawatt-hour (MWh) industrial heat battery, now operational at a Holmes Western Oil Corporation site in California. Powered exclusively by a dedicated photovoltaic solar facility, the system supplies continuous high-pressure steam without reliance on the electricity grid.
This thermal device, the largest of its kind globally, is designed to partially replace natural gas boilers without requiring modifications to the existing site. According to data released by the company, the battery operates with an energy efficiency exceeding 97 %, capable of storing heat at over 1000°C, and delivers a heat volume equivalent to that used by 10,000 households.
Autonomous thermal storage on industrial site
The Rondo Heat Battery (RHB) has been operating fully autonomously for over ten weeks, achieving all contractual performance milestones. The system charges during daylight hours via locally generated solar energy and releases heat continuously across 24 hours. No work-related incidents were reported during installation and commissioning.
This production method aims to reduce the customer’s exposure to gas price volatility and regulatory uncertainty linked to carbon markets. By securing energy costs through on-site solar infrastructure, the operator gains financial stability while meeting the requirements of low-carbon markets.
Prospects for international deployment
Rondo Energy, based in Alameda, stated it is currently developing and operating heat battery projects across four continents, covering five distinct industrial sectors. The model used here could be replicated at other industrial sites requiring high-temperature steam or heat.
“The Rondo Heat Battery is now proven at industrial scale,” said Eric Trusiewicz, Chief Executive Officer of Rondo Energy. “Our customers are improving their competitiveness while cutting emissions.”
