Green Critical Minerals advances VHD graphite technology for solar-thermal energy breakthrough

Green Critical Minerals (ASX: GCM) is advancing a computer simulation model to optimise solar-thermal system performance and ensure efficient energy capture, storage and release for industrial-scale clean power generation from VHD (very high-density) graphite blocks.

The simulation will model the behaviour of the solar-thermal system in an industrial scenario under various weather conditions and across different locations.

It will analyse the entire process from renewable energy capture to storage and discharge of thermal energy, through to the generation of constant, industrial-scale electricity.

VHD pilot plant

The simulation will be specifically engineered to address key issues related to heat retention, energy transfer efficiency and durability under extreme conditions.

The work is being conducted in parallel with the construction of a pilot plant in NSW designed to produce VHD graphite blocks suitable for a demonstration-scale solar-thermal energy system.

Using this approach, Green Critical hopes to avoid delays and ensure efficient progress toward VHD commercialisation.

Clean energy storage

Initial modelling by Professor Chris Sorrell from the University of New South Wales has demonstrated that a VHD block measuring 1.2 metres by 1.2m by 0.25m can store enough clean energy to power a typical household for up to two days.

With its exceptional properties, Green Critical said a graphite block produced from VHD technology may be “perfectly suited” to address the challenges of renewable energy and long-duration storage in utility-scale and distributed energy applications.

“As the world shifts towards cleaner, more sustainable energy sources, the demand for reliable, scalable and efficient energy storage solutions has never been higher,” the company said.

“We have identified the potential for VHD technology to be at the heart of this transformation—producing a graphite block which redefines how we capture, store and deploy renewable energy, ensuring consistent, on-demand power.”

Partner engagement

Green Critical is engaging with potential partners with expertise in the capture of renewable energy and downstream energy generation, as well as with industry participants who are end-users of energy and seeking to leapfrog the competition in the transition to clean, constant power.

It is also liaising with governments and agencies committed to introducing technological advancements in the renewable sector to facilitate the supply of constant clean energy.

The solar-thermal energy storage market is projected to exceed US$35 billion by 2031.