Connections made at the TACTIC conference and trade expo earlier this month could lead to new partnerships that help integrate 1414 Degrees’ technology into industry processing plants.

Dr Jason Chaffey, who is leading the commercialisation of 1414 Degrees’ technology, presented at the 750-delegate conference in South Australia’s Upper Spencer Gulf and is eagerly following up leads.

“We have a product – SiBox – that can be used to decarbonise process heat across a spectrum of temperatures and this conference was an important opportunity to connect with key players in the energy industry and energy users in the region,” Dr Chaffey said.

“This was about understanding their challenges so our solutions can be tailored to their energy footprint, site area and energy available.”

Since successfully proving the efficacy of the company’s SiBox Demonstration Module earlier this year, 1414 Degrees has this technology ready for commercialisation and is seeking commercial pilot partners. “We’re keen to work with energy service providers to come up with solutions for the industries we’re talking to,” Dr Chaffey said.

“We’re focused on industries looking to reduce carbon emissions from process heat, found in industries where steam is used as part of the manufacturing process.”

The conference was also an opportunity to talk about how 1414 Degrees is integrating its proven energy storage solution with hydrogen production technology – through the SiPHyR project.

“By connecting with natural gas users in the region, we’re generating a pipeline of potential hydrogen customers, who could benefit from a solution that would decarbonise emissions at the point of input,” Dr Chaffey continued.

The conference was also held near the site for the Aurora Energy Precinct – which 1414 Degrees is developing with joint venture partner, Vast.

“The key for us, was understanding the main energy users in the region, including BHP – which operates mines in the area – and how they could benefit from renewable firmed energy and frequency controlled and ancillary services.

“The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) has indicated that by 2035, 36 GW of storage is needed to be able to supplement the renewable energy system here in Australia.

“Two things are needed – storage and firmed energy.

“Aurora allows us to demonstrate both for the energy market.”