The Powder2Power consortium gathered in Milan on October 14-15, 2024, for an important milestone: the second Steering Committee and Executive Board Meeting. Hosted by Politecnico di Milano (POLIMI), the meeting provided a space for partners to review project progress, exchange technical insights, and strategize for the next phase of development.
With representatives from leading European research institutions and industrial partners, the discussions covered key advancements across the work packages, upcoming deliverables, and engagement strategies for public outreach. The event was marked by in-depth technical exchanges, constructive debates, and a shared commitment to driving innovation in fluidized particle-driven Concentrated Solar Power (CSP).
Key technical advancements across the Work Packages
The two-day discussions in Milan showcased remarkable progress across all Powder2Power work packages (WP), bringing the project another step closer to demonstrating a MW-scale fluidized particle-driven CSP system.
- WP2: Particle properties and thermal behavior
The fundamental research on solid particles as a heat transfer and storage medium has yielded promising results. Recent studies confirmed that olivine particles demonstrate strong flowability, thermal stability, and resistance to attrition and erosion, making them well-suited for Powder2Power’s innovative energy storage concept. The next steps involve further experimental testing and system integration, with findings expected to be published in high-impact scientific journals.
A major technological highlight from WP2 was the introduction of a Vertical Electric Heater (VEH), designed to preheat particles before their integration into the CSP system. A test rig for these systems has been commissioned and is set for validation in December 2024.
- WP3: Small and large solar loop development
With the dismantling of outdated machinery completed, the space required for Powder2Power’s small loop has been fully cleared, setting the stage for construction. The detailed design phase is nearly complete, and the tender for construction and installation is expected to be published before the end of 2024.
For the large conveyor loop, the design has been finalized, and procurement processes are now underway. The first round of testing for the small loop is planned for early 2025, with results feeding directly into the full-scale system development.
- WP4: Pilot plant and system optimization
Advancements in WP4 focused on the design and optimization of the pilot plant. Using sophisticated modeling tools, the team assessed the impact of receiver power on overall system efficiency. Findings indicated that a receiver power of 50 MW yields a peak nominal efficiency of 64.6%, with preliminary Levelized Cost of Heat (LCOH) calculations suggesting an optimal cost-to-efficiency ratio at 60 MW.
Additionally, the hybridization strategy of the CSP system was refined, ensuring the best possible integration of Powder2Power’s novel particle-based thermal energy storage solution. These results will play a key role in the upcoming pilot-scale implementation.
- WP5: Techno-economic and environmental assessments
The meeting marked the official launch of WP5, which is tasked with evaluating the economic and environmental footprint of the Powder2Power system. A primary focus is on assessing the Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) for a utility-scale particle-based CSP plant, benchmarking it against existing renewable technologies.
In parallel, researchers at KTH are conducting simulations with the MOSES modeling framework to evaluate hybrid PV-CSP configurations. These models will help determine the optimal operating conditions for grid integration, ensuring maximum energy efficiency.
- WP6: Dissemination, Communication, and Impact
As Powder2Power gains momentum, so does its visibility in the broader renewable energy community. The project has already been featured at major scientific and industry conferences, including ASME Turbo Expo 2024 (UK), ESRE 2024 (Germany), and SolarPACES 2024 (Italy).
An important decision regarding the project’s digital outreach strategy was also made by the consortium who has decided to discontinue the Powder2Power project presence on X (formerly Twitter) platform.
Looking Ahead
With the meeting wrapped up, the consortium now turns its focus to the next steps. The next Steering Committee meeting will take place online on March 20, 2025, followed by an in-person session hosted by KTH in Stockholm on September 10-11, 2025.
The two-day discussions in Milan underscored the consortium’s unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of solar energy innovation. With exciting technical developments, strong industry engagement, and a refined outreach strategy, Powder2Power continues to pave the way toward a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.
Stay tuned for more updates, and explore the photo highlights from the meeting below!
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