The operating principle is based on storing hydrogen rather than compressing it. During loading, hydrogen is fed into the storage unit and reduces the iron-oxide nuggets it contains to iron. During discharging, steam is supplied to the storage unit at the point of use — for example from the exhaust of a fuel cell or a combined heat and power (CHP) plant. The oxygen in the steam reacts with the iron nuggets and converts them back into iron oxide, releasing pure H₂ gas in the process.

Since all units are based on standard containers, a system can be expanded at any time during ongoing operation as demand grows. AMBARtec does not necessarily replace the entire existing infrastructure, but complements it: heat pumps cover the efficient base load, AMBARtec's storage units supply hydrogen for electricity and heat during peak loads and periods of low wind and sunshine ("Dunkelflaute"), and existing boilers or CHP plants can continue to operate.

Benefits

Safe H₂ storage, no pressurized gas

Lower operating costs through stored surplus energy and decreasing emission costs

Up to 60% less required grid connection capacity

Climate-neutral, reliable heat supply even during periods of low wind and sunshine

Modularly scalable from single-building units to large-scale district installations

Standard containers – system can be expanded during ongoing operation as demand grows

Seamless integration with existing grid infrastructure without extensive rebuilding

Low maintenance requirements and long service life

Predictable energy costs