Good News, Bad News As Rondo Energy 100 MWh Heat Storage Facility Goes Live - CleanTechnica

Rondo Energy has developed a heat storage technology that uses electricity—preferably from renewable sources—to heat fire bricks to temperatures above 1500ºC. This system converts electrical energy into heat at 100% efficiency and delivers precisely controlled, high-temperature heat for industrial processes, such as dairy production and cement manufacturing, which traditionally rely on fossil fuels. The heat battery integrates easily into existing infrastructure as a zero-emission boiler replacement, recycling air to minimize heat loss and maximize efficiency. The first 100 MWh Rondo Energy system is now operational in Kern County, California, powered by a 20 MW solar installation. However, the heat generated is being used by Holmes Western Oil for enhanced oil recovery, which has drawn criticism from environmentalists who argue that using clean technology to support fossil fuel production prolongs carbon emissions. Supporters, including Energy Impact Partners and Rondo’s founder John O’Donnell, contend that this partnership is a pragmatic step toward decarbonization, reducing Holmes’ carbon footprint