OPZuid Project: Molten Salt Heat Battery for Flexible Electric Steam Generation in Industry

At Saltes, we are advancing the energy transition in the industrial sector through the development and validation of the ThermalPod: a modular molten salt heat battery system for flexible, efficient, and sustainable steam generation. Together with consortium partner NEM Energy, and supported by the European Union, the Province of Noord-Brabant and OPZuid, this project is setting a new standard for industrial electrification and decarbonization.

Project Objective

The main goal is to deliver and validate the first market-ready version (V1) of the ThermalPod. This system stores renewable electricity as heat in molten salt, enabling industries to generate steam on demand, reduce CO₂ emissions, and optimize energy costs by using off-peak electricity. The ThermalPod is validated on Saltes' test infrastructure in Wijchen, providing real-world proof of its performance and business case.

Partnership with NEM Energy

Saltes carries out this project in a consortium with NEM Energy B.V., part of NEM Energy Group. NEM is a global specialist in heat transfer technology and steam generation, with roots going back to 1929. Within the project, NEM develops the 10 kV molten salt heater: the electric heating element that converts grid electricity into stored heat. Combining NEM's heat transfer expertise with Saltes' molten salt storage technology brings the ThermalPod a step closer to large-scale industrial deployment.

Expected Results

• A fully developed and validated V1 ThermalPod, ready for direct deployment in industrial environments.
• Successful validation of the ThermalPod, showcasing the system’s ability to deliver flexible, sustainable steam and confirming its economic and technical benefits.
• Significant cost savings and CO₂ reduction for industrial users, with the potential to participate in energy markets and support grid stability.
• Strengthening the regional economy and job creation in South Netherlands, positioning the region as a leader in industrial electrification.
• Direct contribution to the energy transition, supporting the shift to renewable energy and smarter energy systems.

About OPZuid

OPZuid is the European Regional Development Fund (EFRO) programme for the southern Netherlands: Noord-Brabant, Limburg and Zeeland. It invests in innovation that strengthens the regional economy and accelerates the transition to a low-carbon economy. This project fits that goal by offering industry a flexible, electric alternative to fossil-fired steam production.

Made Possible by the European Union and OPZuid

This project is realized with substantial financial support from the European Union, the Province of Noord-Brabant and OPZuid. Their commitment to innovation and sustainability empowers Saltes and NEM to accelerate the transition to a cleaner, more resilient industrial future.