Aid by Sector
REPP - Renewable Energy Performance Platform
UK - Foreign, Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO)
The Renewable Energy Performance Platform (REPP) is a private finance investment vehicle which mobilises private sector development activity and investment into small- to medium-scale renewable energy projects across sub-Saharan Africa. This is through providing technical assistance, development capital and ‘viability gap’ financing, giving communities access to clean energy supplies and avoiding greenhouse gas emissions. REPP was initially set up by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) in 2015 but was transferred to the FCDO in 2022. REPP consequently has a separate DevTracker account under BEIS which can be found here - https://devtracker.fcdo.gov.uk/programme/GB-GOV-13-ICF-0013-REPP/summary.
Increasing renewable energy and energy efficiency in the Eastern Caribbean
UK - Foreign, Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO)
To increase the use of renewable energy and energy efficiency measures and to improve energy security in the Eastern Caribbean
E-LIEU : A unique Energy resource in the face of naturaL rIsks: LakE KivU (Rwanda)
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
Lake Kivu is located on the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, along the western branch of the East African Rift, a region of active volcanism and high seismicity. The lake spans nearly 2400 km2 and contains nearly 60 km3 of methane (CH4) and over 300 km3 of carbon dioxide (CO2), dissolved in the deep and saline lake waters, from 250m- 485m below the surface. Upper waters of the lake are less saline and ventilated by inflow of cold but relatively fresh groundwater at 250-260m, leading to a strong, stable density stratification called the chemocline. The lake's unique stratification, combined with volcanic and tectonic activity, presents a natural risk of overturning known as a limnic eruption. Methane from Lake Kivu is extracted for electricity production in Rwanda by KivuWatt (owned by Contour Global, UK), who produce 26 MW, and Shema Power Lake Kivu (SPLK) (RW) who produce about 37 MW of power, with plans to increase the rate of extraction. This represents a very significant fraction of the energy needed for the 400 MW of power used in Rwanda: at present extraction rates, the lake could continue producing power for over 100 years. Gas is produced by extracting water from a depth of 260-270m. As it decompresses, the CH4 and CO2 come out of solution. The degassed water is then reinjected into the lake, near the chemocline. The CH4 and CO2 are separated by washing the gas in a stream of shallow lake water, extracted from a depth of 60-70m, at a pressure of about 6 atm. This water resorbs the CO2 and some H2S, and is then reinjected at a depth of 70-100m, while the CH4 remains as a gas and is transported to power plants on the lake shore. We plan to develop fundamental new understanding of the fate of the return water, both (A) injected deep in the lake, near the chemocline, to ensure minimal dilution of the methane rich deep water, and also (B) injected much shallower in the lake with the resorbed CO2, to ensure this does not degrade or stress the surface water ecosystem, especially the fish which are an important food resource. The research will involve running small-scale laboratory and theoretical models of the mixing produced by the plumes of reinjected water. This will enable accurate predictions of the evolving stratification and gas concentration in the lake over the next 50-75 years. We will use the models to explore different approaches for reinjection to identify the most effective approach. We will also develop new quantitative understanding of the risks and likelihood of a lake overturn event, leading to a major release of the dissolved gas, perhaps triggered by a fissure eruption of the nearby and active Nyiragongo Volcano. We will work with the University of Rwanda to build a cohort of students in Rwanda with specialist modelling capability on lake mixing; we will run workshops describing the research and demonstrating modelling tools which will emerge from the project, with KivuWatt and SPLK, as well as REMA the government environment agency and REG, which maintains and operates the energy infrastructure in Rwanda. This will help optimise the longevity of the power generation from Lake Kivu, minimise impact on the shallow lake ecosystem; and assess the evolving risks of a limnic eruption.
Pacific Clean Energy Programme
UK - Foreign, Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO)
The Pacific Clean Energy Programme (PCEP) will support increased investment in renewable energy, and aims to improve access to electricity, increase the proportion of electricity from renewable sources, and reduce greenhouse gas emission.
SIGMA - Novel Seismic Sensors for Improved Geothermal Monitoring and Development in East Africa
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
East Africa sits atop one of the world?s most promising yet underused renewable energy resources - geothermal energy, the natural heat stored within the Earth. This energy is clean, reliable, and available year-round (baseload). Kenya has already shown how powerful this resource can be: since the 1970s, it has become the world?s sixth-largest producer of geothermal electricity. However, neighbouring countries with similar geological potential have not yet achieved the same success. Many barriers remain to unlocking East Africa?s full geothermal capacity, especially the deeper ?supercritical? systems that hold far greater energy and mineral potential. Context and Challenge The project responds to two major global challenges: the need for low-carbon, sustainable energy and the growing demand for critical metals used in renewable technologies such as batteries, wind turbines, and electric vehicles. Supercritical geothermal systems - extremely hot and deep reservoirs - could supply both: vast amounts of renewable energy and valuable mineral-rich fluids. Yet exploring these deep systems requires new scientific tools, data, and training and an enhanced hazard awareness associated with the wider volcanic system. Despite Africa?s enormous geothermal potential, progress has been slowed by limited access to advanced technologies and technical expertise. Developing safe, efficient, and equitable geothermal energy systems therefore requires both scientific innovation and strong international collaboration. Aims and Objectives This collaborative project brings together two major research institutions - Dedan Kimathi University of Technology (DeKUT, Kenya) and the University of Oxford (UK). Together they will: Test next-generation seismic technologies in geothermal fields, including portable low-cost seismic sensors (MEMS-based nodes) and distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) that converts existing fibre-optic cables into dense seismic arrays. Generate high-resolution images of geothermal systems, revealing how heat, fluids, and gases move from deep magmatic zones to the surface. Develop advanced data analysis and uncertainty modelling techniques to reduce risk in geothermal exploration and management. Build regional research capacity by training scientists from Kenya and other African nations in seismic monitoring, imaging, and data interpretation through workshops and field training. Strengthen international and interdisciplinary collaboration by integrating physics, engineering, and geoscience expertise from Africa and the UK. Potential Applications and Benefits The project will deliver both scientific and societal impact. New, low-cost seismic tools and open-access methods will help governments and companies assess geothermal potential more accurately and safely, reducing financial and environmental risk. The research will also enhance understanding of volcanic and earthquake hazards, improving safety for nearby communities. Training activities will expand regional expertise and create opportunities for early-career researchers, ensuring that future geothermal developments are led and managed within Africa. The project will serve as a model for sustainable, locally driven energy innovation, with Kenya demonstrating how advanced science can support economic growth, climate resilience, and the global transition to net zero. Ultimately, this partnership aims to unlock the full potential of East Africa?s geothermal resources - producing clean energy, securing vital materials for the green economy, and strengthening scientific collaboration between Africa and the UK.
Climate Investment Funds (CIFs)
UK - Department for Energy Security and Net Zero
The $8 billion Climate Investment Funds (CIF) accelerates climate action by empowering transformations in clean technology, energy access, climate resilience, and sustainable forests in developing and middle income countries. The CIF’s large-scale, low-cost, long-term financing lowers the risk and cost of climate financing. It tests new business models, builds track records in unproven markets, and boosts investor confidence to unlock additional sources of finance.
Climate Public Private Partnership Programme (CP3)
UK - Department for Energy Security and Net Zero
The Climate Public Private Partnership Programme (CP3) aims to increase low carbon investment in renewable energy, water, energy efficiency and forestry in developing countries. By showing that Low Carbon and Climate Resilient investments can deliver competitive financial returns as well as climate and development impact, CP3 seeks to catalyse new sources of climate finance from institutional investors such as pension funds and sovereign wealth funds.
Clean Energy Innovation Facility (CEIF)
UK - Department for Energy Security and Net Zero
ODA grant funding that supports clean energy research, development & demonstration (RD&D) to help improve the performance of innovative technologies, and to accelerate the clean energy transition to avoid the most severe impacts of climate change in developing countries
Accelerate to Demonstrate (A2D)
UK - Department for Energy Security and Net Zero
The A2D programme contributes to the UK’s £1bn Ayrton Fund commitment to accelerate clean energy innovation in developing countries. A2D will focus on developing innovative technology-based solutions particularly through transformational “lighthouse” pilot demonstration projects in four thematic areas: critical minerals, clean hydrogen, industrial decarbonisation and smart energy.
SMART-HS: Smart Hydropower Solutions for Sustainable and Equitable Energy Access in Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
The Smart Hydropower Solutions (SMART-HS) project will revolutionise the optimisation of clean hydropower energy generation in the Lower Mekong region of Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia through the implementation of smart and inclusive hydropower prediction services. SMART-HS aims to support the energy efficiency and dam safety of the existing dense hydropower network to align with fluctuating energy demand and reservoir inflows. This will be achieved in the context of unprecedented climate variability, climate change, and ageing infrastructure in the region, while developing inclusive energy practices to ensure that no community is left behind. Hydropower systems currently provide more than 50% of the energy in the region but are threatened by the increasing frequency of extreme inflows under climate change, the loss of storage due to reservoir sedimentation, and rapidly ageing infrastructure. Integrating advanced monitoring and forecasting systems to secure sustainable hydropower production and dam safety, within this context, is crucial. SMART-HS will enhance the efficiency of the existing network of hydropower plants by using real-time and forecast data on water levels, weather conditions, and energy demand to inform predictive analytics, facilitating proactive adjustments in energy output to meet variations in demand. The existing hydropower network is predominantly composed of micro-plants located in remote and underserved regions, with ageing infrastructure and significant dam safety risks. Ensuring dam safety is paramount to protect downstream communities from harm while sustaining energy provision. We will provide comprehensive training to support sustainable energy generation and minimise socio-economic and environmental impacts, particularly for small hydropower plants in underserved communities. SMART-HS places a strong emphasis on inclusive energy practices to ensure that no community is left behind. By empowering local communities to participate in and benefit from hydropower projects and supporting gender equality, we aim to foster inclusivity and sustainable development. The overarching aim of SMART-HS is to address the pressing challenge of meeting the growing energy demand in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia by distributing clean energy to rural and remote areas in an equitable and sustainable manner. SMART-HS will accelerate the clean energy transition through a smart and inclusive hydropower system. We address this aim through three main objectives. (1) Implement advanced, low-cost monitoring and forecasting systems for hydropower plants across Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia through the integration of sensors, IoT devices, and machine learning algorithms for real-time data collection and predictive analytics. (2) Optimise energy generation to align with fluctuating demand and water flow supply, ensuring the efficient utilisation of hydropower resources. (3) Provide training and support for small hydropower plants in underserved communities to ensure sustainable energy access, thereby enhancing sustainability and empowerment. SMART-HS’s applications and benefits include: (1) Enhanced efficiency and reliability of hydropower generation, supporting underserved communities and the stability of the region's energy supply; (2) Improved resilience to demand fluctuations and grid disruptions, ensuring uninterrupted access to electricity; and (3) Promotion of inclusive energy practices, bridging the gap between urban and rural areas and fostering social cohesion and equity. By harnessing smart prediction services and promoting inclusive energy practices, this project offers a transformative approach to sustainable low-carbon hydropower generation and distribution in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, with methods that are transferable to other transboundary systems globally. We aspire to create a more sustainable and equitable clean energy future for all.
SOLACE: UK?Africa Solar Alliance on Clean Energy: Single-Substrate, Solution-Processed All-Perovskite Tandem Cells
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
Affordable, reliable clean energy is essential for development, yet many in Kenya, Rwanda and Tanzania still face limited or costly electricity. Solar can help, but next generation devices must be efficient, low cost, stable in hot, humid climates and, ideally, locally manufacturable so more of the value chain remains in Africa. SOLACE is a UK?Africa partnership to develop low cost, high efficiency all perovskite tandem solar cells and build the skills to use them. Perovskites can be made from inks at low temperature, cutting manufacturing cost. Stacking two PSCs into a single tandem device can capture more energy than a single cell. SOLACE brings together laboratories in the UK and Africa to co-develop these tandems while building a local ecosystem and talent pipeline of skilled practitioners to develop them. All-perovskite tandems are feasible, but performance and durability are still limited by interface losses, defects and contact layers, and by the challenge of coating both sub-cells sequentially on one substrate without dissolving the layer underneath. Advancing fundamental understanding of interface and defect losses will guide materials design and layer sequencing that improve durability under hot, humid conditions. We will achieve this through complimentary expertise combining modelling and advanced characterisation, running in a feedback loop with materials development to drive improvements. SOLACE will deliver robust, fully solution processed tandems on a single substrate, establish clear design rules linking materials, interfaces and thickness to efficiency and stability, release open standard operating procedures, analysis tools and well documented datasets so others can reproduce the results, and build long term capability through training schools, a UNESCO Campus Africa bootcamp and reciprocal exchanges, with equitable authorship and clear gender targets. Four linked work packages run in a feedback loop spanning materials and devices (WP1), modelling (WP2), advanced photophysics (WP3), and capacity and outreach (WP4). Through these work packages, we will deliver: 1. Design rules with quantitative band alignment, interface recombination kinetics, mobility lifetime products and contact resistance, with model and experiment in agreement. 2. Devices that are reproducible, fully solution processed single substrate tandems with >15% efficiency and verified stability under heat and humidity and optimised interlayers and defect control. 3. Tools and data, including open SOPs, analysis notebooks and FAIR datasets to enable independent replication. 4. Capacity and equity through exchanges and training with at least 40 percent women, documented skills transfer and equitable authorship and IP frameworks. The benefits are practical and near term. Policymakers gain evidence-based guidance on solar options suited to equatorial climates, supporting affordable clean energy plans. Industry and utilities gain design rules and stability criteria that can improve performance and lifetime of next generation solar and inform procurement. The research community gains open tools and data that speed discovery and enable fair comparisons. Most importantly, partner countries gain durable capability in fabrication, modelling and diagnostics, reducing reliance on imported expertise, supporting future manufacturing readiness and helping to retain more of the value chain within Africa. In short, SOLACE couples cutting edge solar research with practical training and open infrastructure to deliver both the knowledge and the local capacity needed to advance affordable, high efficiency all perovskite tandem solar for Africa.
REACH-PSM: Resilient Renewable Energy Access Through Community-Driven Holistic Development in Perovskite Solar Module Manufacturing
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
Context Energy inequality continues to hamper socio-economic growth in many African nations, where millions lack reliable access to electricity. Traditional energy sources are expensive, environmentally damaging, and dependent on external supplies, which limits their sustainability and accessibility. The REACH-PSM project (Resilient Renewable Energy Access Through Community-Driven Holistic Development in Perovskite Solar Module Manufacturing) aims to revolutionise energy access by enabling the local development and manufacturing of sustainable perovskite solar modules (PSMs) in Nigeria, Rwanda, Kenya, and South Africa. The Challenge With >500 million people in Africa without electricity, there is an urgent need for scalable, affordable, and environmentally sustainable energy solutions. Current renewable technologies, while beneficial, often fail to address local contexts and can result in significant environmental waste, particularly from end-of-life photovoltaic systems. The challenge lies in developing a localised manufacturing process for next-generation solar technology that is both cost-effective and sustainable, with simultaneous development of efficient end-of-life treatment to mitigate waste, allowing for widespread adoption across Africa. Aims and Objectives The REACH-PSM project seeks to accelerate the development and commercialisation of PSMs by focusing on the following objectives: Delivering commercially competitive low-cost manufacturing of PSMs in partner locations in Africa with a performance of >15% PCE and a lifetime of >10 years. Developing novel components of PSMs, and identification of domestic green supply-chains to enable regional manufacture and improve sustainability. Delivering PSMs designed for the circular economy with optimised end-of-life processing, minimising waste and maximising the circular flow of materials delivering enhanced commercial viability, sustainability, and resource security. Creating novel sustainable business models and community co-designed products that are suitable and appropriate for use. Potential Benefits The REACH-PSM project will accelerate the transforming energy access agenda in Africa by pioneering the development of locally manufacturable PSM, demonstrating the first next generation solar module manufacturing in Africa. This localised production will not only empower communities by fostering energy independence and creating jobs but also set a new standard for sustainable energy solutions. By utilising sustainable materials and processes, the project will also address the environmental challenges associated with traditional solar technologies, offering a more resilient and adaptable energy solution. Ayrton Challenge Areas The project addresses the Next Generation Solar Challenge Area. REACH-PSM advances perovskite technology, which offers the potential of more distributed solar manufacturing thanks to low-cost processing and manufacturing routes. REACH-PSM will collaborate across the Ayrton Fund portfolio to amplify impact. We will align with the Ayrton Challenge on Energy Storage, the LEIA programme, the Climate Compatible Growth Project, and the Zero Emission Generators initiative, exploring synergies in local manufacturing, circular economy principles, and sustainable energy solutions. ODA Compliance REACH-PSM is fully compliant with ODA criteria, as it directly addresses the economic and social challenges of Nigeria, Rwanda, Kenya, and South Africa—countries listed on the OECD DAC. By focusing on localised manufacturing and sustainable energy solutions, the project promotes economic development and improves the welfare of communities most in need. The expected outcomes include significant advancements in energy access, environmental sustainability, and economic empowerment, aligning with the broader goals of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG13 (Climate Action). We also seek to advance progress towards SDG5 (Gender Equality), SDG9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG10 (Reduced Inequality), SDG11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
Bridging the Efficiency Gap of Metal vs Carbon back Electrode Perovskite Solar Cells to Support the Clean Energy Growth Transition in South Africa
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
Affordable energy for all Africans is the immediate and absolute priority in the Sustainable Africa Scenario (SAS) 2030. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA) Africa Energy Outlook 2022 report, solar energy-based mini-grids and stand-alone systems are the most viable solutions to electrify rural areas, where over 80% of the electricity-deprived people live [1]. Though Africa has 60% of the best solar resources globally, it has only 1% of installed solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity. Thus more investment and effective solar PV capacity building is required in the region to make electricity from clean energy sources as the backbone of Africa’s new energy systems. The existing silicon PV technology alone cannot meet this demand as it is an expensive mature technology, with global materials security issues, and enormous quantities of PV waste with poor recycling options [2]. Emerging PV technologies such as halide perovskite solar cells combine the unique properties of high power conversion efficiency (>25 %), low-cost printability, and provision to adopt a circular economy to ensure a sustainable clean energy transition for the region [3,4]. Halide perovskite PV offers the lowest cost of solar PV to date (<32 $ per MW h) and it matches with the levelised cost of electricity by solar PV (18-49 $ per MWh) required in Africa in the Sustainable Africa Scenario, 2020-2030. However, the mainstream highly efficient halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) use thermally evaporated metals such as gold (Au), silver (Ag), copper (Cu) etc as the back electrode. These metals account for 98 % of the cost, 65 % of the carbon footprint and 45 % of the energetic cost of perovskite solar cells [5]. Replacing these metal electrodes with carbon electrodes enhances the stability, scalability and commercialisation aspect of PSCs along with further reduction in cost and carbon footprint. However, carbon back electrode-based PSCs (c-PSCs) have consistently lower power conversion efficiency (PCE) compared to metal electrode-based PSCs (m-PSCs) (20 % vs 26 % efficiency comparison for 0.1 cm2 area devices) limiting their commercialisation. The proposed project aims to bridge the gap in power conversion efficiency between the carbon-back vs metal electrode-based PSCs and demonstrate low-cost and highly efficient (>15 %) printable carbon electrode-based mini modules (10 x 10 cm2). This aim will be realised by combining the strengths of know-how in the fabrication and device physics of efficient halide perovskite solar cells of UK-based physicists with the defect analysis strengths of African physicists. To bridge this efficiency gap, the challenges to overcome are (i) reducing the interfacial losses and (ii) efficient photon management inside the perovskite active layer and the research objectives are identified accordingly. The proposed aims and objectives will formulate the foundations for achieving the vision for the proposed project: to provide accelerated growth in the scale-up of cheaper and cleaner energy sources in South Africa to achieve Sustainable Africa Scenario 2030 through capacity building in cost-effective and efficient PSCs in the partnering institution (University of Pretoria) in South Africa. References: IEA Africa Energy Outlook 2022 Charles et al Energy Environ. Sci., 2023, 16, 3711 Carneiro et al Energy Reports 2022, 8, 475 Faini et al MRS BULLETIN 2024, 49 Zouhair Sol. RRL 2024, 8, 2300929
Central Asia Small Projects Programme
UK - Foreign, Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO)
This programme will provide the mechanism for embassies to develop small projects to further the aims of the Country Business Plans and develop learning to support wider programming initiatives, with the overall aim of supporting development in the region.
Ukraine Resilience and Energy Security Programme (URES)
UK - Foreign, Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO)
The Ukraine Resilience and Energy Security Programme (URES) aim is to strengthen access to the European power grid; support more efficient use of energy; and decrease reliance on hydrocarbons. This will promote Ukraine's welfare and economic development, as energy security has been presented by the Government of Ukraine as a top priority in the lead-up to and aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. £62m will be provided to end 2025 to support energy security for Ukraine and ensure that UK expertise and innovation continues to be made available for reconstruction efforts. The programme will deliver: generators (fossil fuel & solar) to increase resilience of key facilities; equipment and parts to repair the transmission system following Russian attacks; investment in green energy companies; grants for the development of green innovations; technical assistance and monitoring; plus contingency.
Rice-straw powered biowaste to energy
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
This consortium, let by Carnot Ltd, seeks to develop the world's first profitable rice-straw bioenergy demonstrator for a rural community in Lombok Island, Indonesia. Rice straw is separated from the grains during harvesting and either combusted (producing CO2) or left to decompose (producing methane with 25\* Global Warming Potential) due to challenges with harvesting it, particularly in flooded paddy fields (a common occurrence). Straw Innovations has created innovative technology that overcomes the barriers to harvesting it in all weathers, unlocking a potential 300Mt of rice straw generated in Asia every year. Rice straw has high ash content (around 20%), comprising about 75% silica. This, combined with other components in the straw (chlorine, potassium) causes melting and slagging / fouling in boilers when combusted. Hence, it is not an easy fuel to chop or combust. PyroGenesys have developed a lower-temperature pyrolysis process which can convert rice straw into Biochar, a carbon-sequestering fertiliser that can be used by the rice farmers, and biofuel. The carbon sequestered can be traded on carbon removal markets. Surplus biofuel not used to generate electricity can be sold. Electricity is a low-value commodity and renewable electricity projects will typically require very large scale to be profitable and attract funding required from investors. PyroGenesys' process solves this problem by opening up two very high-value revenue streams. Carnot is developing ceramic engine gensets with double the efficiency of state-of-the-art diesel gensets, capable of operating on all fuels. These will provide electricity to the rice mills as their base load as well as electricity to a rural community. Integrating Carnot's gensets enables revenues generated by biofuel sales to be maximised. Indonesia: * Is the world's 5th largest GHG emitter. * Is the largest producer of biofuels worldwide. * Has mandated to convert a significant portion of its palm oil into FAME biodiesel. There is a reluctance to move to renewable energy due to fossil fuel sunk costs/subsidies and no proven profitable off-grid low-carbon energy business model. This demonstrator project aims to be the catalyst to breaking the deadlock and unleashing investment into Indonesia's enormous renewable energy potential. Key project outputs: * Pilot-scale demonstration of business model feasibility * 200,000kg rice-straw feedstock; * 76,000kg value-added-biochar/53,200kg carbon sequestration/80,000kg biofuel; * 2.28MWh electricity provided to rice mill.
Development of a HIGH Capacity FLEXible Energy Storage System for Mini-Grid Application in Sub-Sahara Africa (High ESS)
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
This collaborative project will develop and demonstrate a new technology (HIGHFLEX) that consists of a high-capacity flexible energy storage systems (HIGHFLEX ESS) integrated with innovative Battery Management System (BMS); Power Conditioning Unit (PCU) and intelligent monitoring and performance management system (Digital Twin) for mini grid applications in hot climates. The new technology is a portable and scalable system that facilitates: Quick development of mini grids in SSA. Storage of high-capacity energy generated from clean power sources during peak hours for off-peak utilisation. Delivering reliable and affordable power system through innovative solutions e.g., Digital twin, second life battery, real-time performance management and heat control system. The project's vision is to rapidly accelerate access to affordable off-grid electricity from clean energy sources in SSA. The project taps into the expanding global mini grid markets to offer affordable energy access for social mobility and inclusion in SSA communities not served by main power grids. HIGHFLEX will facilitate steady supply of electricity to rural and unserved areas and reduce energy access gaps between rural and urban communities in SSA where inaccessibility to affordable electricity is one of the main drivers of poverty to over 600 million people. This project has chosen Nigeria as a case for deployment of HIGHFLEX technology because of its over 200 million population and majority of its rural population (48% of its total population) do not have access to affordable and low carbon electricity. The project addresses barrier (access to electricity) to adoption of advancements in healthcare system; developing new technologies for agriculture, commerce, education; and entrepreneurship. HIGHFLEX makes it possible to deliver low carbon electricity to unlock sustainable economic development in SSA communities. This will empower women and children to lead more productive lives and have a better wellbeing. This will in turn encourage gender equality by learning digital and modern skills, which gives girls and women equal access to education, healthcare and enterprise. Furthermore, access to clean energy via mini grid will reduce crime and social unrest, since majority of the population would be productively engaged (Bloomberg 2020). This will lead to improved human security and cohesive communities and societies driven by mutual objective for sustainable development. HIGHFLEX will accelerate access to affordable and low carbon clean energy from bio-diesel, solar and wind (SDG 7), which lower environmental impacts from continued use of diesel-powered generators in Nigeria (world's leading generator consumer) to combat climate change effects (SDG 13).
REACT Mid-stage - Renewable Energy Access for the Conversion of Tuk-tuks
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
Following the successful early-stage project, this project aims to further develop the innovative technologies and business models that together will improve energy access to hundreds of thousands of Sri Lankan three-wheel tuk-tuk drivers. Tuk-tuk-drivers -- male and female - rely on their vehicles as an important source of income but currently lack access to energy which is affordable, reliable and carbon free. The project will convert internal combustion engine tuk-tuks to electricity and power them with clean and renewable solar energy. Tuk-tuks are the main light transport method in Sri Lanka and other adjacent countries such as India, Thailand and Indonesia - there are over 1.2 million tuk-tuks in Sri Lanka which generate considerable air pollution. The vast majority of these vehicles are powered by out-of-date two or four stroke petrol engines. In addition, the recent fuel price rise and severe supply instability has affected the tuktuk drivers' community who are subsisting on low-incomes. Following the innovative concept of tuktuk conversion and battery subscription scheme developed from the early-stage project, we aim to mature the user-centred technology and business model in this mid-stage project and address several technical and business challenges, to pave the way for successful exploitation. The design of the conversion kit including mechanical, electric and electronic components, will be reiterated and improved towards final products; long-term strategic suppliers will be identified and the partnership will be developed; partnerships with local garages and fuel stations (charge stations) will be developed; data will be collected and new business opportunities will be identified; training courses will be developed to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the vehicles. A large trial will be conducted to prove the concept and collect valuable data. The team will also work with the local authorities to promote the technologies and businesses. The Technology lead for the project is an industrial firm, Alta Vison (Pvt) Ltd (AVL) who have a rich experience in renewable energy system installation and operation, and energy storage system development. Another business partner Large Minority who has valuable experience and connection with end-users will join the team. They are supported by two academic partners with sound track records and knowledge in mechanical and electric system design, electric and hybrid vehicle research and development. The team has both a strong technological and business background, as well as good understanding of the local market and the policy landscape in Sri Lanka.
Floating Instream Tidal and Solar (FITS) Power Plant - Nepal Pilot Project
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
Harvesting hydrokinetic energy from running river water presents a highly attractive addition to the existing renewable energy sectors. Critically, and unlike most other renewables, this technology guarantees a predictable and consistent energy output which can contribute to the baseload power requirements of its energy off-takers. AEL has developed an innovative hybrid technology which couples run-of-river hydrokinetic generation with solar - the Floating Instream Tidal and Solar (FITS) power plant. FITS technology has been specifically optimized for river deployments, and is scalable to enable both energy access and utility scale power generation. This project will deliver the first fully developed FITS pilot, supplying constant renewable power to an off-grid community in rural Nepal. The electricity supplied will be used to provide lighting and cooking facilities to households in the community, and will additionally power water filtration and pumping equipment, providing access to clean water for drinking and water for agricultural industry.
Fiji WAVEFLOW
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
With the increasing demand for clean energy in island nations to achieve the ambitious decarbonisation goals for a net-zero future, where limited land availability poses a significant challenge for onshore renewable solutions, our ocean-based technology provides a game-changing solution that also tackles the challenges in offshore renewables deployment. Our innovative wave energy solution is designed to work seamlessly with existing floating wind systems, delivering clean, reliable, and affordable energy to land-constrained island nations facing energy access and energy equality challenges. Combining wind and wave power optimises energy production, reducing overall costs. This cost-effectiveness makes clean energy accessible to a wider population, helping bridge the energy gap and promoting equality among communities. This compatibility also allows for efficient use of infrastructure and capitalises on established offshore wind installations. We maximise efficiency and minimise installation and maintenance costs by leveraging these synergies. We are also committed to minimising the environmental impact associated with energy production. Our wave technology harnesses the power of nature without disturbing marine ecosystems, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between renewable energy generation and marine life preservation. By deploying our wave technology alongside floating wind systems, island nations can overcome energy challenges and pave the way for a cleaner and more sustainable future. Our solution brings a transformative change, empowering communities and contributing to a more equitable and environmentally conscious world.
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