Officially launched on the 1st of June 2024, with the first in-person meeting held on the 4th and 5th of July in Madrid, HELIOTROPE is an ambitious research and development project focused on pushing the boundaries of Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) technology. By developing cutting-edge molten salts and materials technologies for thermal energy storage systems, HELIOTROPE aims to significantly enhance the efficiency and sustainability of CSP plants across Europe.
The project “Advancing CSP Technology with Innovative Molten Salts and Thermal Storage Solutions” has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation. HELIOTROPE’s primary objective is to develop a new generation of sustainable molten salts capable of withstanding absorber surface temperatures up to 850ºC, well above the current industry standard of 600ºC. This technological breakthrough promises to significantly increase CSP plant efficiency and dispatchability, contributing to energy security and reducing reliance on fossil fuels while lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
In addition to developing innovative thermal storage mediums, the project takes a holistic approach by integrating sustainable practices and materials throughout its research and development process. HELIOTROPE aims to set new standards for circularity by design and environmental sustainability in the CSP industry, driving socio-economic impact and fostering competitiveness in the renewable energy market.
HELIOTROPE is executed by a consortium of 12 partners, including leading research institutions, industrial companies, and SMEs specializing in renewable energy, from 6 countries (Spain, France, Germany, Belgium, Israel, and Denmark). The consortium brings together extensive expertise in CSP technology, materials science, energy storage, and environmental sustainability, creating a dynamic ecosystem capable of pioneering new solutions for the energy sector.
The HELIOTROPE project has a duration of 48 months, with the 1st of June 2024 being its start date. You can follow the HELIOTROPE’s news on the project website.
For more information, contact:
Carla Iturrioz
+33 638 40 75 59 – citurrioz@zabala.fr
heliotrope-project.eu