Metalot@Work 2025: Holon 0 Ignites the Iron Powder Revolution

On 24 September 2025, Metalot@Work welcomed over 100 participants, both in-person at the Future Energy Lab in Budel and online, to celebrate the launch of Holon 0—the world’s first iron powder chain demonstration. This landmark event showcased how Metalot is driving the energy transition by uniting innovators, industries, governments, and communities to create a sustainable future.

A Milestone for the Metal Power Ecosystem

Metalot@Work 2025 marked a pivotal moment, unveiling Holon 0 as a tangible step toward circular, CO2-free energy. Metalot’s role as a foundation was emphasized, orchestrating an ecosystem that integrates research, industry, and policy to scale iron powder technology from a university concept to global applications. The event highlighted the first complete iron powder chain, a proof-of-concept that sets the stage for broader adoption and momentum.

Voices of the Pioneers

The event brought together key stakeholders who shared their motivations:

Vlassak

As a local entrepreneur, John emphasized the potential of Holon 0 to transform the Meemortel industrial site and support Cranendonck’s housing projects. By integrating iron powder into industrial and residential energy solutions, Vlassak aims to lead by example and foster a collaborative energy community.

Nyrstar

Afounding partner of Metalot, Nyrstar highlighted their role in facilitating the reduction process for Holon 0, leveraging their industrial expertise and exploring zinc as a future metal fuel. Their commitment underscores the practical benefits for industry players.

Municipality of Cranendonck

Representing the local government, Karel outlined Cranendonck’s support since Metalot’s inception, including funding and plans for 3,000–4,000 sustainable homes. The municipality sees Holon 0 as a cornerstone for energy solutions in Brainport’s ecosystem.

From Research to Market

TU/e: The TU Eindhoven presented the Metalot Academy, a program to educate businesses, governments, and engineers about iron powder technology. By bridging academia and industry, TU/e is fostering a global ecosystem, with plans for seminars on 30 October (governments) and 6 November (industry) to share knowledge and drive adoption.

ArmanTech: Introduced a techno-economic model, showcasing how iron powder can provide energy security for communities like a village of 160 households. With a 1.4 MW burner, Holon 0 achieves 90% energy independence at a stable cost of ~€196.8/MWh, mitigating geopolitical and climate risks. ArmanTech’s digital twin technology accelerates market-ready solutions.

A National and Global Vision

The Ministry of Climate and Green Growth announced their support for iron powder as a key energy carrier, committing to establish an Iron Power Platform in collaboration with Metalot. This platform will focus on standardization, legislation, and creating a commodity market, ensuring the technology’s integration into the Netherlands’ energy mix. On the international stage, Metalot is leading an EU lobby with partners in Germany, France, Switzerland, and Canada to secure global traction and policy support.

Looking Ahead

The success of Metalot@Work 2025, with its diverse audience and compelling presentations, proves that Holon 0 is more than a concept—it’s a reality sparking the Metal Power revolution. The next steps include scaling the technology, expanding the Iron Power Platform, and hosting follow-up events.

Join the Movement: Want to learn more or get involved? Visit our Metalot@Work sessions, become a member or join our upcoming seminars on 30 October and 6 November
Together, we’re building a sustainable future, one iron particle at a time!

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