Iron Energy secures CHF 150,000 from Venture Kick to build next-generation hydrogen storage with iron-based technology
19.09.2025
ETH spin-off Iron Energy has received CHF 150,000 from Venture Kick to bring to market its novel hydrogen storage systems. With this support, the cleantech startup is shaping a new class of reliable, cost-effective, and safe seasonal storage solutions designed to stabilize renewable energy supply.
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Fossil fuels are the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions. To reach net-zero targets, they must be replaced by renewable energy. But wind and solar have one major weakness: they only deliver power when the weather allows—often too much in summer and midday, but not enough in winter or at night. Current storage technologies cannot bridge this gap reliably: they are either too expensive or environmentally unsustainable. This leaves a critical missing piece in the energy transition.
Iron Energy is closing this gap with a patented solution built on iron, a material that is abundant, affordable, and easy to handle. At the heart of the technology is a reversible chemical reaction between hydrogen and iron oxide, which makes it possible to store energy safely in the form of iron—without the risks associated with volatile hydrogen gas. This innovation reduces storage costs by up to 90% compared to conventional methods and provides a scalable, robust option for long-term and seasonal use. In short, Iron Energy transforms surplus renewable power into a dependable, year-round energy supply.
The market potential is enormous. Long-duration energy storage is set to become a cornerstone of the energy infrastructure of tomorrow. In Europe alone, the market could grow to more than CHF 50 billion over the next decade. As one of the first movers with a disruptive and scalable solution, Iron Energy is well positioned to capture more than 20% of this market, delivering reliable solutions to renewable energy developers, industrial customers, utilities, and local energy communities.
The CHF 150,000 from Venture Kick will allow the cleantech startup to advance its business, complete the design of its first commercial unit, and demonstrate the durability of its technology—bringing long-duration storage a step closer to market adoption.
The company was founded by CEO Samuel Heiniger and CFO Daniel Bloch, supported by advisors Prof. Dr. Wendelin Stark and Prof. Dr. Robert Grass. Together, they bring the technical expertise and entrepreneurial drive to establish Iron Energy as a key enabler of a clean and stable energy future.
CEO Samuel Heiniger and Prof. Dr. Robert Grass
Iron Energy is closing this gap with a patented solution built on iron, a material that is abundant, affordable, and easy to handle. At the heart of the technology is a reversible chemical reaction between hydrogen and iron oxide, which makes it possible to store energy safely in the form of iron—without the risks associated with volatile hydrogen gas. This innovation reduces storage costs by up to 90% compared to conventional methods and provides a scalable, robust option for long-term and seasonal use. In short, Iron Energy transforms surplus renewable power into a dependable, year-round energy supply.
The market potential is enormous. Long-duration energy storage is set to become a cornerstone of the energy infrastructure of tomorrow. In Europe alone, the market could grow to more than CHF 50 billion over the next decade. As one of the first movers with a disruptive and scalable solution, Iron Energy is well positioned to capture more than 20% of this market, delivering reliable solutions to renewable energy developers, industrial customers, utilities, and local energy communities.
The CHF 150,000 from Venture Kick will allow the cleantech startup to advance its business, complete the design of its first commercial unit, and demonstrate the durability of its technology—bringing long-duration storage a step closer to market adoption.
The company was founded by CEO Samuel Heiniger and CFO Daniel Bloch, supported by advisors Prof. Dr. Wendelin Stark and Prof. Dr. Robert Grass. Together, they bring the technical expertise and entrepreneurial drive to establish Iron Energy as a key enabler of a clean and stable energy future.
CEO Samuel Heiniger and Prof. Dr. Robert Grass