Future-Proof Cultivation – a field trial using iron powder for fossil-free heat and electricity in bulb growing

As part of the 'Future-Proof Cultivation' project, we are testing a complete iron powder system under real-world conditions at the E.J. Hogervorst & Zonen bulb nursery in the Duin- en Bollenstreek region. The aim is to determine whether iron powder technology can offer a reliable, fossil-free alternative for the high-temperature heat (90–100°C) and electricity that bulb growers require during the drying season.

The bulb-growing sector faces a specific energy dilemma: a sharp peak demand for high temperatures that is ill-suited to heat pumps, batteries, or solar energy, all while the power grid is congested and natural gas is being phased out. Iron powder serves as a circular energy carrier: it is burned to generate heat (without CO₂ emissions), some of that heat drives a turbine to produce electricity, and the residual product (iron oxide) is converted back into reusable iron powder elsewhere using green hydrogen.

What the project entails

• Construction and commissioning of a demonstration unit (burner, heat exchanger/boiler, and turbine) at Hogervorst.
• Monitoring of heat, electricity, emissions, and operational reliability over two drying seasons.
• Translation of the measurement data into a validated business case, a digital twin, and a scaling-up framework for the wider floriculture region.

The project runs from August 2026 to December 2028 (28 months) and comprises an implementation phase and a field validation phase.

Metalot’s Role

As the ecosystembuilder, Metalot is responsible for connecting the entire iron powder value chain. We ensure that the circular chain integrates seamlessly with the operational site and share the knowledge gained with the Metal Power Community.

Partners

The project is part of the Ornamental Horticulture Region Regional Deal and is made possible in part by the Holland Rijnland Regional Fund and Rabobank Duin- en Bollenstreek.
Successful validation could not only future-proof the region's bulb cultivation but also lay the foundation for a new regional value chain centered on the installation, maintenance, and regeneration of iron powder.