Exploring iron powder as sustainable energy carrier
Geldof is participating in the Interreg Vlaanderen-Nederland project “MPH2 Leer- en testomgeving”, a cross-border initiative exploring Metal Power as a circular energy solution for industry. The project brings together expertise from Flanders and the Netherlands to develop and test the complete Metal Power energy chain in a real-life environment.
Metal Power stores renewable energy in metal, with iron powder offering particular potential as an energy carrier. Renewable energy and hydrogen are used to convert iron oxide into iron powder. When the powder is oxidised, the stored energy is released as high-temperature heat, after which the resulting iron oxide can be converted back into iron powder and reused.
Because iron powder can be stored and transported in large quantities, the technology could bring renewable energy to industrial sites where direct electrification is not technically feasible or access to hydrogen infrastructure is limited. MPH2 will connect and test the key steps of the chain, including reduction, logistics, storage, combustion and integration into an energy system.
Geldof contributes its expertise in the safe handling and storage of iron and iron oxide powders, building on its experience with industrial bulk solids and storage systems. Participation in the project allows Geldof to apply this know-how to an emerging energy technology while gaining insight into the requirements for future large-scale applications.
The MPH2 Leer- en testomgeving project is supported by Interreg Vlaanderen-Nederland and runs from April 2026 until March 2029.