NL Space Campus Tackles Net Congestion with Space-Inspired Solutions: Developing a Sustainable Energy Hub with Iron Power

Many areas in the Netherlands are affected by net congestion. The energy transition is driving rapid electrification, including mobility and heating. Our electrical grid is struggling to keep up with this shift. Yet, as a society, we are determined to eliminate fossil fuels and become carbon neutral. Investments in wind and solar energy are growing, but what happens when these are not always available? When there’s no sun, no wind—what then? 

Joran de Gooijer, an Aeronautical Engineering student focusing on Space Engineering at Inholland University of Applied Sciences Delft, has been passionate about space from a young age. While attending the Network & Drinks XL event in October 2024 at Space Expo, he discussed graduation thesis topics and encountered the challenge of net congestion related to NL Space Campus development. Among fellow space engineers, the conversation quickly shifted from conventional solutions—such as upgrading cables—to space-inspired alternatives. 

One solution stood out: the award-winning concept from the 2023 technology transfer competition, Welcome to the New Iron Age – Green Energy Revolution with Iron Powder by Metalot. Also known as Iron Power. 

If Iron Power can enable circular energy systems on other planets, why not here? Joran is now researching how this technology could be applied to an energy hub concept for NL Space Campus. His graduation project will run from February to the end of June, with Joran based on campus during this time. 

Image source: https://hydrogentechworld.com/iron-power-enabling-large-scale-green-energy-storage-using-iron-powder 

A Sustainable Step for NL Space Campus 

The project explores how NL Space Campus can meet its growing energy demands through renewable sources while reducing reliance on fossil fuels and the grid. The proposed energy hub will combine wind and solar energy with short- and long-term storage using Iron Power and batteries to provide heat and electricity for the campus. 

Iron Power does not replace wind or solar but complements them—making the energy system more resilient. It stores surplus renewable energy and provides flexible output, similar to fossil fuels but without CO2 emissions. 

In the coming months, Joran will:

Photo courtesy of Joran de Gooijer’s personal archive.

• Map current and future energy needs for NL Space Campus and build possible scenarios. 

• Assess renewable energy opportunities in the Duin and Bollenstreek region, as Iron Power depends on renewable energy (such as solar and wind) to regenerate the iron fuel. 

• Develop a technical energy vision for the campus community. 

This research will support NL Space Campus in becoming more self-sufficient and sustainable, helping to avoid energy bottlenecks that could limit campus development. 

What Makes Iron Power Unique?

Iron Power is a circular, carbon-free energy carrier. It burns cleanly to produce heat (and electricity) and can be regenerated with renewable energy, providing a sustainable alternative for industries and off-grid applications. Originally developed for the space sector, Iron Power is now being explored for terrestrial use, addressing key challenges of the energy transition: 

• Energy security 

• CO2 neutrality 

• Safe and seasonal storage 

• Transportability 

• Renewable and affordable energy 

Iron Power has already been successfully tested in the Netherlands, where it provided heating to 500 homes in Helmond, showing its potential for local applications. NL Space Campus will now be among the first to integrate Iron Power into a dedicated energy hub concept. 

Joran stated:
“This seems a fitting technology not only for NL Space Campus but also for society, hence my drive to show what impact this technology can have.” 

Why It Matters

This project is more than a graduation thesis; it’s a step towards NL Space Campus’s ambition to grow sustainably and contribute to a greener future for the region. We look forward to seeing how this work will benefit our community in the long term. 

Want to learn more about Iron Power and Metalot? Visit the Metalot knowledge portal. Curious about Joran’s journey? Connect with him on LinkedIn. 

Make sure to join one of our upcoming Network&Drinks events, where curious minds meet to exchange ideas and explore new possibilities. It’s the place where meaningful connections spark innovations—and who knows what your next conversation might lead to?