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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.
Global Energy Transfer Feed-in Tariff (GETFiT)
UK - Department for Energy Security and Net Zero
The Global Energy Transfer for Feed-in Tariff (GET FiT) Programme was established in 2013 with the main objective of assisting Uganda to pursue a climate resilient low-carbon development path by facilitating private sector investments in renewable electricity generation projects. The support provided was expected to improve access to electricity and promote growth and economic development in Uganda and contribute to climate change mitigation.
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.
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.
Islanded Wave Powered Microgrid Pilot for Remote Islands in Thailand
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
This project is a building on and adding to our successful Energy Catalyst R8 early-stage project, demonstrating good feasibility of the proposed concepts in enhancing the efficiency of onshore wave energy converters (WECs) and developing advanced wave-powered microgrids (WPMG) in the selected remote islands of Thailand with limited or no grid access which currently use expensive, polluting diesel generators (DEGs) as the main supply. The unit cost of the electricity generated by WPMGs can be significantly reduced by advanced predictive optimal control strategies to improve the wave power output of the WECs in a range of sea states with state-of-the-art power electronic components and novel microgrid energy management systems (EMS). The EMS can significantly reduce the power conversion/distribution losses and use deep-learning-based algorithms to forecast the stochastic loads in varying weather and wave conditions. Moreover, the microgrid provides a reliable and secure source of electricity using distributed and remote EMS services. In this mid-stage project, we aim to systematically demonstrate the efficacies of the whole concept to pave the way for sea-trial testing validation at the final stage. The consortia will integrate all the key components into one hybrid system-level wave-to-wire (W2W) WPMG simulator to validate the functionalities of the microgrid efficiently and economically in various scenarios close to real sea conditions. The wave prediction will be enabled by the latest Radar-based technology to provide shutdown signals for detrimental waves and to increase the survivability of the WECs. We aim to increase the technology readiness level (TRL) of the proposed WPMG technologies to build up a stand-alone microgrid in the final stage. Overall, the project aims to provide inclusive community-based renewable energy (sensitive to gender equality and social inclusiveness) that addresses the lack of energy access in Thailand's remote and isolated islands and eventually in other SE Asia countries like the Philippines and Indonesia. The project consortia include key industrial players, including Aquatera, Hitachi Energy, Toshiba, EcoWavePower, and major universities QMUL, Manchester & Exeter, for successfully delivering the project objectives. Following our successful workshops in the early-stage project, we will hold further technical and training workshops for the technology transfer in the SE Asia region, especially for female professionals, to promote gender equality in the renewable energy sector.
Off-Grid Renewable Energy Production and Storage with Organic Rankine Cycle, Solar and Waste (RESORCS)
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
According to the International Energy Agency, around four percent of the world electricity supply comes from solar electric cells. Solar energy is abundantly available in South Asia and in Sub Saharan Africa that is not harnessed nowhere near its full potential. The conventional technologies that harness solar energy are solar thermal and solar electric cells. Solar electric cells have a low conversion efficiency compared to solar heating cells and other thermal based energy conversion methods, for example an IC engine. Despite having a recycling efficiency of around 95%, recycling of solar electric cells is currently an expensive process. RESORCS project aims to design, construct and test an off-grid renewable energy production technology with a novel high output Rankine engine, local waste and solar energy harnessed with a concentrated solar collector. A concentrated solar collector can collect thermal energy efficiently and relatively cheaply. Collected thermal energy is used to propel a Rankine Cycle engine based rotary turbine generator to generate electricity. Thermal energy collected can be boosted using thermal energy produced with waste combustion and bio-gas generated using waste. This hybrid combination can produce high grade thermal energy that will also increase thermodynamic efficiency of the prime mover, in this case, the FeTu turbine. Thermal energy collected during day is stored in a thermal energy reservoir that can be regulated based on demand. Electricity generated can be used directly, fed to the grid or stored in a battery bank for night time use or during high demand. It can also be used to power sustainable clean transport systems such as electric cars. The system can be used either as a standalone application or a grid connected system. The system is suited for a cluster of households or a small-scale enterprise. In summary, the project aims to: design and optimise a concentrated solar collector system with environmentally friendly materials and technology for optimal efficiency; develop a thermal energy storage system and a Organic Rankine Cycle engine based turbine generator which is suitable for the concentrated solar collector system; design electricity generation and control system with the concentrated solar system Stirling engine generator with grid connectivity; design and integrate a waste combustion system to boost energy; prototype the combination system and test its performance in different modes of use; and investigate the design and impact of the system, pre and post design and construction
Piloting Basic Solar Energy Grants for Equitable Access to Energy
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
Like many emerging markets, South Africa has a fast-growing urban population, resulting in the proliferation of informal settlements on land often unsuitable for grid electrification. Nevertheless, under South African law, municipalities have a legal obligation to provide basic services, including energy, to all households but prioritising the poor. While existing national policies do allow for alternative (off-grid) energy services, these policies were not initially intended for urban informal settlements and are thus not fit for that demographic. A number of municipalities are thus exploring how to develop their own policies to meet this need. For example, the City of Cape Town is considering implementing a grant for eligible low-income households that do not have grid electricity. The monthly grant could be put toward an energy service of each household's choice. An advantage of such a grant is that it would provide affordable and varied options for consumers, and would stimulate innovation and competition amongst potential service-providers. Before implementing such a policy the city is seeking evidence to help establish an optimal grant-value that ensures a high level of inclusivity. iShack and Zonke Energy have been providing off-grid solar energy services (via Solar Home Systems and Solar-Towers, respectively) for a number of years in various informal settlements around Cape Town. They have tested a range of financial and operating models, and have shown conclusively that for the South African informal settlement context, private enterprise alone cannot fill the gap of energy access due to a lack of affordability. Thus, some form of state support is needed. In this project a Basic Energy Grant (funded by Energy Catalyst Round 10) will be implemented in one large community in order to demonstrate its effect on inclusivity, as well as build the case for viable business models. iShack and Zonke will collaborate to provide a choice of basic solar energy services. The project will run for two years, during which each participating household will have the benefit of the grant, which they can use towards the purchase of a Solar Home System or access to Solar-Tower electricity. A programmatic community engagement element will support a co-productive relationship with the community as well as promote energy democracy and capacity building, gender equality and inclusivity. Progress and outcomes will be monitored by Future Advisory Ltd who will conduct communications to disseminate the results of the pilot to relevant stakeholders, in particular to municipalities.
Ubuntu Energy
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
This project aims to build community resilience in sub-Saharan Africa using Energy Ubuntu as a vehicle. It is akin to the 'Uber of Energy', democratising power sharing, transforming wasted energy into community power, and empowering communities to drive their development through sustainable means. It seeks to transform waste energy to community power for productive use. It addresses the developmental challenges of lack of modern and clean energy access, energy poverty and the harmful effects of global warming by improving access to clean and reliable electricity and deriving new business and economic change models, and building capabilities and contributing to SDGs 1,3,4,5,7,8,9,11,12,13. Nigeria's electricity sector faces a problem. Its Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) are sub-optimally utilized and substantially wasteful, while it has deficient electricity access of ~60%. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are up to 400% oversized or lack the mechanism required to utilize their generation potential. Some PV systems are up to 80% used during the weekdays but are 20% utilized on weekends. Rural communities only utilize about 5% of the potential PV energy. Yet, 85 million Nigerians have no electricity access, costing Nigeria $26 billion annually for self-generation using carbon-intensive generators, causing excessive carbon emissions and energy waste because excess generation cannot be fed into the grid. To address this challenge, Energy Ubuntu delivers a design and pilot of a smart grid (SG) peer-to-peer (P2P) energy-sharing framework that enables the distribution of excess generation potential to energy consumers to enhance PV capacity utilization and minimize energy waste while providing clean and affordable electricity. It improves PV usage by incentivizing individuals or businesses to sell energy to potential consumers in a peer-to-peer system. The consumers will be SMEs and homes near solar PV systems in rural and urban communities. The project will be implemented over two years with critical deliverables of smart grid design, energy trading software, energy data mining and machine learning models for energy supply, deployment of smart circuitry in 200 sites, energy trade, and the evolution of new business models and community resilience initiatives. It will be implemented by four teams, Greenage Technologies (Technical lead), Nithio (Technical partner), Oxford EPG (research lead), and DRE Partners Ltd (formerly Kula Foods) (Admin Lead). Some co-benefits can be derived from Energy Ubuntu, including sustainable community development and carbon emission reduction leading to improved standards of living while significantly decreasing CO2 emissions.
Energy Catalyst Accelerator Programme (ECAP) Rounds 9 and 10
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
Provides incubator and business accelerator support to help companies to grow and to commercialise their innovations.
Circular Microgrids: Circular Economy Pathways for Renewable Microgrids in Africa
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
The United Nations Trade and Development (UNCTAD) highlights that over 50% of Sub-Saharan Africa's population remains without electricity and in some rural areas access plummets to as low as 5%. In response, our project leverages the principles of the circular economy to pioneer the development and deployment of cheaper and cleaner renewable energy microgrids across Africa. Recognizing the continent's urgent need for systemic and sustainable changes in energy access, reliability, and generation, our initiative addresses these issues by tapping into the growing global stock of electronic waste from the first generation of electric vehicles (EVs). By repurposing components such as lithium-ion batteries, power-converters, and electrical motors, which are unsuitable for transport but remain functional for stationary applications, we offer a novel solution to the challenges of energy generation, storage and distribution. These components can be integrated into solar energy storage within microgrids, micro-wind or hydro generation systems and energy controllers, presenting a unique opportunity to bolster renewable energy infrastructure at lower cost while mitigating the environmental impact of electronic waste. The project's objectives are to Create knowledge and build capacity for repurposing electronic waste in microgrid development. Develop a circular value chain framework and business model for microgrid applications. Implement circular economy principles for cost-effective energy storage solutions. Deepen understanding of the dynamics between energy producers and consumers within the African context. Co-create and advocate for circular microgrids through stakeholder engagement and policy formulation across sub-Saharan Africa. Establish a Pan-African, multisectoral, interdisciplinary Centre of Excellence in circular microgrids. The project will be delivered through the Pan-African, multisectoral, interdisciplinary Centre of Excellence—Circular Economy Powered Renewable Energy Centre (CEPREC). CEPREC will serve as a triple helix hub, fostering collaboration among academia, government and industry through workshops, training sessions, and knowledge exchange activities. The project brings together engineering and social sciences expertise from De Montfort University, University of Warwick alongside policy and impact expertise from Chatham House, and partnerships with universities and governments from six African countries. The team will include 26 academics (11 UK & 15 African), 26 Researcher and innovation Associates (5 UK & 21 African) and 16 PhD scholars (2 UK & 14 African). The project, which aligns with the national priorities and targets of the participating countries, has strong government and industrial support with national governments pledging support that includes participating in the steering committee and utilizing project outcomes to shape national policies. Similarly, participating universities and industrial partners have endowed PhD-studentships, which will be jointly supervised by UK and African academics. Aligned with the Ayrton themes of Low Carbon Supplies and Smart Delivery, our project is poised to make a significant impact on the delivery of Affordable and Clean Energy, in line with SDG7 as well as reduce the environmental footprint of energy solutions, contributing to SDG12&SDG 13. Operating across Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Sierra Leone, Namibia, and Rwanda, the project will offer a comprehensive perspective on the energy landscape in sub-Saharan Africa, while also providing insights tailored to each country’s specific needs and opportunities. By adopting an approach that is rooted in interdisciplinary collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and a clear focus on sustainable development, our project is poised to deliver transformative impacts in the beneficiary countries, creating a paradigm shift in the way energy is produced, consumed, and thought about in Africa.
Potential of sub-seasonal Operational Weather and climate information for building Energy Resilience in Kenya (POWER-Kenya)
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
Context and Challenges Kenya Vision 2030 identifies energy as a key infrastructural enabler for social and economic development, aiming for universal energy access and 100% renewable energy by 2030. Currently, 54% of Kenyans, and up to 84% in rural areas, lack access to sustainable modern energy, relying on traditional wood fuels for cooking and heating. Kenya's energy generation is particularly sensitive to weather variability, with nearly 50% of electricity coming from weather-sensitive sources like hydro, wind, and solar power. Achieving the ambitious goal of 100% renewables requires doubling the current capacity of these weather-sensitive sources. Despite the growing reliance on renewable energy, Kenya lacks reliable weather and climate information for effective energy planning, particularly on sub-seasonal timescales (weeks to months in advance). This gap impacts crucial decisions such as generator maintenance scheduling, international market trading, water conservation, and future energy storage management. In comparison, other regions like Europe have more advanced user-relevant tools for renewable energy decision-making. Aims and Objectives POWER-Kenya seeks to bridge the gap between Kenya's increasing dependence on weather-sensitive renewable energy and the lack of reliable weather and climate information to support energy planning. The project also aims to build capacity for integrated climate-energy research in Kenya. Its objectives are: Ob1: Deliver a step-change in the underpinning physical science to support affordable, clean energy by advancing understanding of sub-seasonal predictability of weather-sensitive demand and renewables. Ob2: Build combined climate-energy research capacity to continue improvements in maintaining reliable energy supply in Africa, facilitating the creation of risk-informed tools for energy decision-making to benefit both society and the economy. Acknowledging Kenya’s continent-leading capabilities in climate and energy fields individually, the POWER-Kenya project brings together UK and African expertise in electricity demand and renewable energy modelling (Bloomfield, Oludhe, Brayshaw, Olago), with the forefront of research on sub-seasonal predictability (Hirons, Gitau, Woolnough), and expert knowledge of East African climate (Wainwright, Mutemi, Hirons) to conduct world-leading energy-climate research to support this step-change in understanding (Ob1) and build partnerships and capacity (Ob2) capable of supporting Kenya’s climate-smart shift to reliable renewables. Applications and Benefits. Universal access to affordable, clean energy helps emerging economies like Kenya progress towards their Sustainable Development Goals by building businesses and societies capable of producing and consuming sustainably for a climate-resilient future. However, access to reliable energy has societal benefits far beyond sustainable economic growth. Reliable energy access can empower women, and other marginalised groups, by improving access to services such as mobile technology, online banking, educational materials, and employment opportunities. Access to clean energy, especially for currently unconnected rural households, can enhance health outcomes by reducing reliance on traditional wood fuels, which are linked to respiratory diseases. Achieving POWER-Kenya aims to ensure Kenya's shift to clean, weather-sensitive renewables is backed by current scientific thinking and proven techniques that will help deliver the country's aim for reliable energy for all businesses and households. Beyond Kenya, POWER-Kenya outcomes will inform and support the aims of the wider Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP) - an institution that coordinates regional cross-border power trade and grid interconnection. KenGen, a key project partner and regional leader, is a utilities member of the EAPP. Through iterative dialogue with POWER-Kenya, KenGen will help co-design the research, by defining energy stress case studies, and ensure it remains solutions-orientated and maximises benefits for Kenya and the broader region.
Efficient Photoelectrochemical Green Energy System based on Hematite Photoanodes Heterostructured with Selected 2D Transitional Metal Dichalcogenides
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
This project addresses the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions by enhancing photoelectrochemical (PEC) water-splitting technologies, which convert solar energy into storable hydrogen fuel. With the increasing global focus on mitigating climate change, the development of efficient, renewable energy technologies is paramount. PEC water splitting, a process that uses sunlight to produce hydrogen, presents a promising pathway to this goal. Our initiative centres on improving the efficiency of hematite-based PEC devices through innovative heterostructures incorporating two-dimensional (2D) transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs), such as SnS₂, MoS₂, SnSe₂, and MoSe₂. Hematite has long been studied for its potential in solar-driven water splitting due to its strong visible light absorption and favourable theoretical solar-to-hydrogen (STH) conversion efficiency. However, its practical application has been limited by issues such as poor electrical conductivity, slow charge transport, and high recombination rates of electron-hole pairs. By integrating hematite with 2D TMDCs, we aim to overcome these challenges, enhancing the material’s performance through improved charge transfer, reduced recombination losses, and optimised band alignment. This approach promises to boost STH conversion efficiency and achieve the 10% benchmark set for practical applications, making a significant contribution to the development of scalable, clean energy solutions. The project not only advances scientific knowledge but also brings substantial benefits to researchers and institutions in Africa. The collaboration between UK and African institutions facilitates access to cutting-edge facilities and expertise in the UK, which are critical for the successful implementation of this research. African researchers will have the opportunity to train on advanced characterisation tools and gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art PEC technologies. This exposure is invaluable for building their technical skills and enhancing their research capabilities. Moreover, the project fosters networking and collaborative opportunities between African and UK researchers, promoting the exchange of knowledge and ideas. This international collaboration helps to strengthen research networks, opening doors for future partnerships and joint ventures. African institutions will benefit from the establishment of sustainable partnerships and the development of local expertise in advanced energy technologies. Additionally, the project includes outreach and dissemination activities, which will raise awareness and engage various stakeholders, including the public and industry players. These activities will not only highlight the advancements in PEC technology but also showcase the contributions of African researchers to global scientific progress. In summary, this project is poised to make significant strides in improving PEC water-splitting efficiency, with the added advantage of enhancing research capacity and collaboration between African and UK institutions. By addressing key challenges in renewable energy technology and providing valuable training and networking opportunities, the project aims to contribute to the global transition to clean energy while strengthening the scientific community in Africa.
Temperature-sensitive Earth-abundant Catalysts for green Hydrogen production
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
Hydrogen production via water electrolysis technology has been a major focus of discussions for practical carbon-neutral transportation fuel and a key component for other chemical syntheses for the past decade. Particularly, Africa’s total announced electrolyser pipeline capacity has reached 114 gigawatts. However, the costs of water electrolysis to be reported in the range of 2-5 £/kg H2, which is still twice as expensive as the existing fossil fuel-based technologies. Among various electrolyser technologies for hydrogen production, alkaline water electrolysis is considered to be the most mature type for industrial scale-up and has strong cost-effectiveness. Despite these advantages, its cold-start nature, unfortunately, requires a certain ramping-up time (approximately 1 hour). This makes it challenging to integrate with renewable energy sources, which are difficult to predict. Alkaline water electrolysis at elevated starting temperatures offers a promising solution to enhance catalytic reactivity and reduce required electric energy, increasing cost-effectiveness. The cobalt- and nickel-based catalysts, known for their prominent temperature dependence, could be the key to enhancing the hydrogen production rate. In this study, we aim to establish a feasible fabrication method of temperature-sensitive catalysts for alkaline water electrolysis and to explore the multi-element catalysts' physical and chemical bonding structure change at elevated temperature conditions. Exploring the underlying mechanism of intrinsic kinetics change is a challenging yet crucial step towards more efficient and cost-effective hydrogen production. The ultimate goal of the proposed collaboration entitled "Temperature-sensitive Earth-abundant Catalysts for green HYDROgen production (TECHydro)" is not to develop new catalysts but to discover new combinations that have a high-temperature sensitivity and explore underlying principles, giving rise to fresh perspectives of the developed catalyst for their application to AWE. The outcomes will provide a methodological achievement in cost-effective catalyst preparation. Moreover, the project will make a rigid bridge for further joint-research funding applications and staff exchange between African (South Africa and Kenya) and UK partners. We believe that the outcomes of this study could set benchmarks for hydrogen production that operates more efficiently in South Africa and Kenya's hot climate, contributing to the global transition towards a hydrogen economy.
Compound-Semiconductor-Enabled Renewable Energy System for Powering Critical Buildings in Africa
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
Africa’s power supply systems for critical loads, such as healthcare facilities, are transitioning to a more sustainable, efficient and reliable future. This is driven by the integration of renewable energy, which includes AC and DC power conversion enabled by power semiconductors switching at increasingly high frequencies (e.g., 10–100 kHz). The semiconductors’ operation causes power loss, reducing energy efficiency, and they are the most vulnerable components, counting for 20%–30% of the failure of power conversion systems. Improving the performance of the semiconductors will thus provide significant benefits in energy saving and system reliability improvement. For example, a 1% increase in efficiency in solar photovoltaic (PV) inverters and a 1% in reliability will make 150 GWh more energy available to critical healthcare facilities in Africa. This project’s overarching aim is to leverage the latest advancements in Silicon Carbon (SiC) semiconductor technology to develop high-efficiency and reliable solar photovoltaic-battery energy storage system (PV-BESS) for critical loads. Such compound semiconductors have low conduction loss, fast switching speed, and high operating temperature, which provides all potential for developing low-carbon PV-BESS. Challenges are that high-frequency switching of SiC semiconductors can increase thermal stress and create electromagnetic interference (EMI) due to their high-speed voltage transients (e.g. dv/dt over 10kV/us), affecting the reliability of the PV-BESS and lifespan of critical components such as capacitors and batteries. SiC semiconductors exhibit various material defects and variability, leading to variations and high non-linearities in their electro-thermal performances. Integrating SiC semiconductors into PV-BESS requires a better understanding of induced parasitic parameters and their coupling with components, including capacitors, inductances and gate drivers. To address these issues, the project has three research work packages (WP1-3): Develop accurate characterisation and modelling methods for semiconductor devices (WP1): Accurate SiC electro-thermal models and lifetime models will provide a new understanding of SiC semiconductors, which will be built to evaluate component efficiency and reliability under various environments. Integration optimisation of SiC-based PV-BESS (WP2): This involves studying and modelling the multiphysics coupling between SiC semiconductors and other components, investigation of induced parasitic parameters and system-level topology design of PV-BESS to reduce power conversion stages, thus improving overall efficiency and reliability. Validation and operation optimisation of SiC-based BESS in various operation conditions (WP3): This will investigate integration strategies and verify the benefits brought by SiC devices' advantages to ensuring the BESS’s high-efficiency and reliable operation in both normal and fault conditions. The main deliverables will include validated tools and a testbed for modelling and characterisation of SiC semiconductors (WP1), hardware-in-the-loop demonstrator for validating the SiC-based PV-BESS (WP2), and optimal operation strategies for PV-BESS (WP3). These will be useful to physics R&D institutions, renewable equipment vendors, and power system operators. The project will involve international partnerships with the University of Nairobi, with support from Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN) and Toshiba Europe. Researchers involved will benefit from the unique collaboration and training, and the project will help Africa build new physics research capacities in the renewable energy and semiconductor sectors. The project output will boost the PV-BESS’ energy conversion efficiency by 1%–2%, and extend their mean-time-between-failures by 20%. Developed compound semiconductor technologies will have a wider impact across applied industries, including electrified transportation sectors, robotics and aerospace. The integration and BESS technologies can be extended to generic low—and medium-voltage energy systems.
Cotton Footprint: transitioning the carbon intensive cotton and textiles industry to renewable infrastructure through a whole supply chain approach
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
A collaboration to deliver affordable energy solutions in rural Pakistan communities who are integral to the farming and production of global cotton supplies. The Affordable Clean Energy Farm (ACE-Farm) is a novel insetting scheme that aims to redistribute capital via investments by fashion brands, textiles manufacturers and clean cotton networks to reduce the impact of their own carbon consumption. This project will continue the work delivered by UK energy management company, Pilio, and Pakistan energy infrastructure company, SAMA^Verte, under an Energy Catalyst 8 funded feasibility study. Within this continuation project, we will demonstrate the economic model that aims to bring clean and affordable energy access to Pakistan's 10m cotton workers. Our focus is on creating a multiplier effect via a range of ecosystem services, including household energy access, productive energy on industrial cotton farms (ginners) and enabling micro-enterprises to offer energy services and create new markets. Within this project Pilio will develop our technology platform, that measures the investment brands make in terms of carbon reduction and affordable energy uptake, as well as economic terms including ROI. This project will be delivered in close working partnership with WWF Pakistan and global sustainability experts, Better Cotton.
SolarERA (Solar Electrification of Rural Areas)
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
The people of Thar Desert have little to no electricity access. Those that have access, use diesel polluting generators to produce this electricity, while fuel supply is unreliable and intermittent. The Thar is the most populous desert in the world, with approximately 16.6m people living there. Tharis are far behind the Pakistani average on economic skills. They rely predominantly on agriculture/livestock and "Thari crafts" (ornate embroidered/sewn garments such as quilts and cushions) to survive. The Thari women who make these crafts are extremely hardworking and talented, spirited and committed. Empowering women can change the destiny of Tharparkari people. However, the unavailability of electricity needed to power productivity enhancing stitching/sewing machines, means these women must make every stitch painstakingly by hand. As such, garment making is incredibly slow, laborious, and they are unable to leverage their skills to benefit their families and the wider village community. By the end of 2026, SolarERA systems will be ready to provide a unique electrification solution that will benefit these people by affording them access to off-grid electricity and in turn electric sewing/craft machines, and in doing so revolutionise their current economic situation. As a result, Thari-crafts can form the bedrock of the economic model that will provide microfinance institutions with the confidence to offer the initial investment to fund the SolarERA pico-grids. From this key initial electrification enabler, further downstream benefits can flow in relation to Health and Well-being, Education and Learning, Communication and Connectivity etc. Additionally, SolarERA will serve to preserve the age-old Thari crafts skills of these women, passed down by successive generations for centuries. The benefits to project partners are clear, major growth in jobs (25-UK, 125-PAK) and economic activity (£22.5million in revenues) by 2031. Kunwaa Foundation will be able to achieve its aim of improving the lives of the Thar people more easily and faster. SALATEEN will become a leader in the supply and installation of pico-grids across Pakistan and neighbouring countries. Zhyphen will see a significant boost in exports of critical technology for the enablement of low-cost off-grid solar solutions, enhancing it and Brunel-University-London's reputation as leaders in this area
SolarSaver2 (SS2) Low Cost Energy Solution in Africa Energy Catalyst Round 10: Mid Stage
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
SOLARSAVER2 focuses on delivering a sustainable business model for using innovative low carbon off grid drying solutions. The project aims to create value for small- and large-scale sub-Saharan agricultural producers and other stakeholders by adding a new sustainable technical and processing solution delivered at a pricing level suitable for deployment in Africa and Asia to create highly nutritious products and reduce food waste. Fruit and vegetable products are of high moisture content. The key target is to significantly reduce the energy consumption, operating costs and carbon footprint of conventional drying techniques using an innovative low-temperature drying process. The sustainable delivery of low cost drying has a significant impact on the different sections of society such as the poor (majority of farmers) and women (about 50%) are catered for. Extensive operations and trials are planned with partners in Tanzania including local manufacturing. The processing solution is such that it can be easily deployed on-farm at different degrees of decentralisation and in centralised small, medium and large-scale industrial sites.
Li-Ion Battery Storage Circularity For Africa By Africa for Low-Carbon E-Mobility E-Agriculture and Minigrids
DEPARTMENT FOR SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
Kampala, Uganda has the 17th worst air pollution in the world, with an abundance of motorcycles contributing with unregulated emissions. 75% of Ugandans are rural farmers, living off of subsistence farming with energy access rates below 10%. Meanwhile, the two-wheeled EV (2WEV) market is taking off in the region, poised to help reduce air pollution but introducing a looming e-waste problem caused when their lithium-ion batteries reach the end of their service life. Taken separately, these are problems. But together they represent an opportunity to turn e-waste into e-resources, increase energy access and agricultural productivity, and boost the uptake of clean energy solutions. To this end, Soleil Power and STI4D are implementing a project to build high-quality 2WEV batteries designed for efficient repurposing into affordable and scalable 2nd-life products for energy access customers. We want to get ahead of the curve by enabling a circular battery value chain right from the start. Li-Ion batteries have a long total life-span but they are removed from EV service once they are depleted to 80% of their original capacity. Thereafter, whilst they are no longer optimal for EV use, they still have very high potential value in stationary applications such as mini-grids and institutional ESS. To capture this value, STI4D and Soleil will also design affordable 2nd-life products that can be deployed off-grid or as backup-power. Soleil will build on existing partnerships to test these innovative products. E-mobility company Zembo, building 2WEVs and battery swapping/charging infrastructure, sees high value in procuring their batteries domestically as well as having a partner to offtake them after they have completed their service. E-Ag partner Regenerators, who are working to increase smallholder productivity through the introduction of an electric tractor will also pilot the EV battery. Soleil's experience shows that much of the cost associated with the repurposing of EV battery products depends on the complexity of disassembly, testing and rebuilding used battery-modules. The new designs will streamline and accelerate this process to reduce e-waste and facilitate circularity whilst increasing access to clean and affordable energy. A better understanding of the battery circular economy in East Africa is critical to finding optimal ways to incentivize commercial investment, so STI4D and Soleil will also use the project as a case study on which to conduct a value-chain analysis, developing and collecting data on sustainable business models including for combining energy access systems with battery-charging as anchor loads.
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