New solar-powered system transforms coffee roasting with stored heat
Researchers have successfully tested a solar-thermal energy storage system that integrates with existing roasters, improving efficiency and consistency in coffee production while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
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A collaboration between Sandia National Laboratories and Michael Thomas Coffee has yielded a solar-thermal energy storage system capable of roasting coffee beans using stored solar heat. The technology captures energy in a bed of heated rocks, which can then be applied to roasting processes. This approach has demonstrated faster pre-heating and cooling cycles, allowing roasters to process more batches in the same period while maintaining more consistent results. The system is designed as an add-on for conventional natural gas roasters, making it accessible for existing operations without requiring major modifications. Beyond coffee, the technology holds potential for other food and beverage applications, including grain roasting for beer and chocolate production. The project leverages New Mexico’s abundant sunlight, positioning the region as a hub for solar-powered industrial processes. Researchers are now exploring commercialization and patenting the technology for broader use. The development marks a step toward integrating renewable energy into traditional manufacturing workflows, potentially reducing carbon emissions in food processing industries.
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