Disaggregated Energy Sensing for the Smart Grid

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

42 Technology is exploring an innovative metering technology to separate demand from various electrical appliances at a single metering point. This could potentially help households save up to 6% on electricity bills and reduce CO2 emissions with minimal additional equipment. The project aims to demonstrate the technology’s ability to gather rich data and distinguish between simultaneously used appliances, possibly leading to the creation of new IPs around the energy usage of different appliances.

Extra-light and sustainable textile wind turbine blade

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

Responsive Algorithmic Enterprise (RAE)

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

This project develops algorithms for energy control using appliance signature data from case studies (carpark, plastic factory, village community). The algorithms address issues in monitored data when applying demand response, focusing on peak load management and load balancing. They also leverage secondary power sources like PV, wind, and battery storage.

The collaboration involves the University of Reading’s expertise in energy data analytics and optimisation, and AND Technology Research’s energy monitoring and control proficiency. Simulations and tests will be conducted using cost-effective energy monitoring equipment pioneered by AND Technology Research, focusing on meso-level organizations. The project aims to develop predictive control algorithms for meso-level energy management based on monitoring data.

Vertical cubic GaN LEDs on 150mm 3C-SiC substrates

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

DamGPR-Drone

REGION

Phillippines, South-East Asia

TECHNOLOGY

Other

SECTOR

Other

SCALE

Not Specified

STAGE

Early

ROUND

Round 7

Bringing profitability to small scale on-farm AD through cryogenics

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

Development of Power Roll, ultra-low cost and ultra-lightweight PV

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 3

The market for photovoltaic (PV) modules has expanded dramatically over the past decade. Big Solar Limited is developing Power Roll, an ultra-lightweight and ultra-low-cost solar PV product. This unique technology allows users to generate renewable energy at a cost lower than carbon-based alternatives and significantly more affordable than current PV technologies. With a thickness of less than 0.25 mm, Power Roll is 98 times lighter than current PV, allowing for a wider range of applications compared to existing PV technologies.

Improving energy gains whilst reducing water required for Anaerobic Digestion of Food Waste

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

Micro Turbine Renewable Energy Combustor (MiTREC)

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

Bladon Jets targets decentralized clean energy in developing countries with small-scale micro turbine biogas generators. The project aims to design and validate a combustion system for renewable gaseous fuels, utilizing Bladon Jets’ 12kWe recuperated microturbine architecture. This addresses challenges in operating micro-scale Closed Cycle Gas Turbines (CCGT) with low-calorific-value fuels. Maintenance focuses on NOx emissions, combustion efficiency, and overall system life. Additional studies explore biofuel pre-processing and market analysis, providing a comprehensive understanding of feasibility. The project aligns with the vision of delivering clean, affordable, and resilient energy solutions to underserved regions.

Blockchain-based off-grid energy trading system to enhance the sustainability of less affluent communities in Indonesia.

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 8

Addressing the global energy access challenge, over 1.1 billion people lack power, including 125 million in Southeast Asia and 30 million in Indonesia. Blockchain Climate Policy Studies, Innovator 4.0 Indonesia Forum, and P.T. Energi Inovasi Desakota collaborate on an Energy Catalyst project. Focused on DLTs like blockchain, it aims to create a new energy market alongside solar-powered mini-grids. Deploying three systems in urban and rural Indonesia, the project explores ‘smart contract’ proofs-of-concept using AI/Machine Learning for electricity trading via a mobile app. The study assesses DLT impact on mini-grid operation, comparing it with traditional methods, aiming to empower Women’s Energy Cooperatives for sustainable community service delivery and development impact.

Zero Emission Vehicle Battery Remanufacturing for Energy Storage Applications (Project ZEBRA)

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

This project addresses the environmental impact of 9 million tonnes of End of Life (EoL) automotive waste in the EU, particularly from Electric Vehicles (EVs). Aceleron, Blue Vine Consultants, and Alp Technologies collaborate to showcase a sustainable approach to EoL automotive batteries. Instead of traditional material breakdown, the project demonstrates safe disassembly, testing, and rebuilding of these batteries into Energy Storage (ES) devices. These devices offer a cost-effective solution for electricity storage in developing regions with unreliable power sources, benefiting communities with limited access to electricity. Alp Technologies will provide a demonstration of the battery packs’ capabilities in this innovative project.

Solar heat storage for drying Forest Tree Seeds (SoFTS)

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 7

Buffalito Platform

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

Electricity and Zero Emissions from Landfill Gas

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

AFRI-Char

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 6

AFRICHAR will develop and evaluate, at the feasibility level, an integrated transportable system to obtain combined electrical power and heat from managed coppice and agricultural waste in African countries, initially Mozambique. The project will evaluate the conversion of woody biomass into char, high-grade heat and pyro-gas which can be burned directly as fuel or used for electrical power generation. This makes clean, affordable, sustainable energy locally available in rural communities. 10-20kWe will be generated, alongside various grades of heat to serve rural communities with electricity, hot water, and food processing for preservation.

Carnot Gen-Sets – Feasibility Study

REGION

Ethiopia, Eastern Africa

TECHNOLOGY

Multiple – Non-Renewable

SECTOR

Energy Generation

SCALE

Mini-Grid

STAGE

Early

ROUND

Round 7

 

 

 

Project Hummingbird

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 7

DryGro Energy Crops

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

The DryGro Energy Crops (DEC) project aims to develop a method for producing biofuels on currently arid lands. Utilizing the DryGro system, which reduces water requirements for biomass production by 99% compared to conventional agriculture, DEC will explore biofuel production in Kenya and assess its applicability in other arid regions.

Comprehensive Life Cycle and Integrated Sustainability Assessments will gauge the social, environmental, and developmental impacts of this approach. The DEC initiative is expected to mitigate negative effects on food production, water security, biodiversity, and land tenure associated with existing biofuel production methods.

Bio-GaTe - Advanced Biomass Gasification Technologies

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 3

Computational Modelling Cambridge is testing a sustainable, low-emission energy alternative that meets global energy demands is crucial for global security as conventional fossil fuels deplete in the future. Despite its sustainability and carbon neutrality, the key constraint in the wider adoption of biomass gasification is its inefficient processes in handling diverse feedstocks, leading to poor gasifier performance.

The project aims to use physics-based virtual engineering for the cost-effective development of advanced biomass gasification technologies (Bio-GaTe) that convert biomass feedstocks and wastes to alternative energy and high-purity synthesis gas. Aligning with government policies, the project also supports a low-carbon economy, decarbonizing energy generation with renewables for enhanced energy security.

A CSP and TFG hybrid energy system

REGION

Nigeria, Western Africa

TECHNOLOGY

Multiple – Renewable

SECTOR

Clean cooking

SCALE

Household

STAGE

Early

ROUND

Round 7

Efficient & Affordable Medium-Size Concentrated Solar Power Device for Low Cost Clean Cooking

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 7

Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) offers substantial heat for cooking, laundry, and crop drying in remote areas. Yet, it needs improved energy efficiency compared to other renewables. The project aims to create an efficient, affordable CSP device for smoke-free cooking in India, benefiting mid-day meals, small cafeterias, and women entrepreneurs. The objectives are to construct an energy-efficient, low-cost CSP-based cooking device for mid-day meals, conducting a feasibility study. It will engage with schools, women workers, cooks, and entrepreneurs in India to enhance renewable energy access for women and underprivileged populations.

Smart Energy Exchange Networks (SEEN)

REGION

Tanzania, Eastern Africa

Technology

Other

SECTOR

Energy generation

SCALE

Off Grid

STAGE

Mid

ROUND

Round 6

Creating electricity by reducing cost, payback time and Carbon foot print - An exploitation of a novel method into manufacturing Cyrstalline Silicon Photovoltaic solar Cells

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 3

Photovolatic (PV) solar cells are renewable energy devices that convert the energy of light directly into electricity. The cost of PV devices remains very high and are often unaffordable for low-income communities. In this project De Montfort University are testing the use of silicon structures for application in PV to assess the benefits of low temperature processes, less power consumption, and a reduction in heat dissipation to the environment to reduce PVs carbon footprint. This is done so that structures can be deposited onto affordable, flexible plastic substrates. The process is scalable and compatible with an already existing industrial process (PECVD) and reduces manufacturing costs. The project’s aim is to better understand the potential benefits of using this process for PVs.

SolaNetwork

REGION

Botswana, Southern Africa

TECHNOLOGY

Other

SECTOR

Energy networks and systems

SCALE

Off Grid

STAGE

Mid

ROUND

Round 6

 

 

 

Creating virtual demand response assets using predictive modelling, with special application to Thailand

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

DuckDuck and the Energy Research Institute at Chulalongkorn University in Thailand collaborate with I-ON (South Korea) to explore the synergies between Demand Response and distributed solar power for enhancing solar production. In Demand Response programs, electricity users, including factories, offices, and households, receive compensation for temporarily reducing their demand during grid strain. Solar power’s intermittency can be balanced by aggregated Demand Response. The consortium employs predictive algorithms to aggregate diverse electrical loads into more predictable ones, facilitating their participation in demand response. These approaches will be evaluated through trials testing various demand response schemes.

PHOENIX: Printable Hard carbOn Electrodes for Na-Ion batteries with eXtra capacity

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

This feasibility project aims to establish a cost-effective sodium-ion battery (NIB) option for Residential Energy Storage (RES) in conjunction with PV. The initiative involves transferring knowledge from the conductive ink industry to the battery sector, focusing on developing carbon pastes and electrodes. Dycotec Materials Ltd collaborates with Sharp Laboratories of Europe Ltd and Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG). Leveraging Faradion’s NIB technology, Dycotec’s expertise in carbon paste formulation, and WMG’s large-scale coating capabilities, the PHOENIX project seeks to demonstrate the feasibility of a non-toxic aqueous-based carbon paste for crafting a novel hard carbon anode. This innovative approach aims to enable a low-cost anode formulation and coating, offering a cost-effective sodium-ion battery technology optimized for RES markets.

Low Cost Power Supplies for Developing Countries - Repurposing Computer Power Supplies (RECOMPS)

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 3

Developing a cost-effective renewable energy supply for off-grid populations, this project explores a sustainable approach to the energy trilemma. Millions of functional electronic devices discarded in Europe annually are often needlessly smelted for metals. Instead, a more beneficial approach involves refurbishing these items for new applications, preserving their value and extending their lifespan. In sub-Saharan Africa, less than 25% have access to domestic electricity, yet power is crucial for phone charging and basic lighting. This project aims to convert a waste product into a valuable, low-cost unit. It removes power supply units from end-of-life computers and modifies them to work with solar cells, providing portable energy for essential needs like phone charging and basic lighting.

Engaging Household Energy Savings and Demand Response Opportunities

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

This project addresses the widespread deployment of smart meters globally, particularly in developing countries combatting electricity theft. With smart meter data accessible online, the initiative aims to explore the technical feasibility of an innovative online display. This display would provide real-time comparative feedback on consumption, offering insights into how households compare to similar ones historically, potentially yielding up to 6% savings. Additionally, the project will assess a direct Demand Side Response (DSR) engagement and real-time peak reduction comparative feedback feature, encouraging households to reduce demand when needed. The application of these concepts in real-time aims to cut electricity bills, enhance network stability, and support renewable connections, marking a pioneering effort in this context.

GENSSIS (Gravitational Energy Storage & Synchronous Inertial Stability)

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 3

A consortium of six UK companies will conduct a detailed study on the feasibility of developing a gravitational potential energy-based technology for zero-emission ancillary grid balancing services with National Grid Electricity Transmission plc. This is the opportune time to explore cost-effective and reliable technologies to reduce carbon emissions.

The project has merged many existing technologies into the design to function in a completely new area of operation. For example, integrating offshore oil and gas industry techniques with modern products like synthetic rope yields cutting-edge solutions. The project is commercially innovative as it identified a utility application, reproducing electrical energy without carbon emissions or toxic chemicals.

Extreme Low Energy Server Cooling

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

This project tackles the significant energy consumption in ICT infrastructures, amounting to 1560TWh, constituting 8% of global demand. Annual data centre energy usage has risen by 11%, with half allocated to cooling and electrical power. Dominated by convection fans, mechanical cooling plants consume 33% of energy. The study systematically evaluates a novel air-moving system using piezo actuators for DC-based server cooling, contrasting it with conventional fan technology. This innovative approach, integrating alternative air cooling and DC power, aims to notably decrease electricity demand and operating costs, slashing server cooling energy use by around three-quarters compared to conventional methods. Commercial analysis will gauge the disruptive innovation’s viability, facilitating its potential realization against business as usual.

Final Development of a Zero Energy Dehumidification and Cooling System

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

Modern building cooling systems heavily rely on electricity, amplifying overall energy consumption. Growing middle class populations and persistent global warming anticipate a surge in air conditioning demand. Free Running Buildings (FRB) Ltd and the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) at the University of Sheffield collaborate to finalize FREECOOL’s manufacturing design. This zero-energy passive ventilation with active cooling reduces air temperature by 15°C and humidity without external power. The effort aims to complete the design of flat-packed modules for easy shipping and modular construction. Field trials will showcase FREECOOL’s ability to significantly decrease building energy consumption.

MARLIN STAR Community Access to Stored and Transferrable Energy from Floating Renewables

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 7

The MARLIN STAR project advances the development and commercialization of a groundbreaking innovation, providing coastal communities with access to stored and transferable energy from floating renewables. Aligned with UN Global Goal #7 for Affordable and Clean Energy, the project revolutionizes traditional construction methods for large floating platforms. The MARLIN underwater construction system utilizes patent-protected buoyancy and orientation control, enabling the assembly of structures at the point of use. These modular structures can be easily transported in standard shipping containers, reducing costs, and facilitating mass manufacturing. The project assesses market and social conditions for implementing floating offshore wind energy in Bangladesh and India, aiming to improve energy access and quality of life in deprived areas.

eCook - a transformational household solar battery-electric cooker for poverty alleviation

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

The project explores the feasibility of solar electric cooking (eCook) in Africa, anticipating cost parity with biomass (charcoal) by 2020. Solar photovoltaic and lithium iron phosphate batteries may replace biomass, mitigating health risks, climate emissions, and deforestation. With over 300 million households spending over $10/month on biomass, this aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 7, promoting affordable, reliable, and sustainable modern energy for all by 2030. The strategic use of solar technology offers a pathway for households to shift biomass expenditure into decentralized electrical infrastructure, fostering cleaner, safer, and more sustainable cooking practices.

Development and pilot distribution of innovative, affordable electric pressure cooker in Kenya

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 7

eStreet: transformative renewable microgrid-based business zones for the Democratic Republic of Congo

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 6

eStreet is a transformative renewable-microgrid-powered business zone for off-grid and poor-grid communities in Africa. eStreet provides professional business premises with all key business services including reliable power, clean water, communications, maintenance and security to enable businesses to succeed in underserved off-grid communities. eStreet is based on a robust solar-battery microgrid energy system located on-site that delivers high-quality and reliable power for productive use.

REFLOW: Renewable Energy from Fish Lipid Oil Waste

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

The project aims to enhance the value chain in fish farming, a vital industry for many developing countries and the global food supply. New technology will be developed to recover bioenergy and renewable fuels from waste products of fish farming. Additionally, sustainable approaches to fish feeding will be explored, with the goal of improving the growth and nutritional quality of the fish, thereby contributing to better economic and social conditions for communities.

Energy Facilitated Markets Places

REGION

Mozambique, Southern Africa

TECHNOLOGY

ICT

SECTOR

Productive Uses

SCALE

Mini-Grid

STAGE

Early

ROUND

7

SEBA - Smart Energy Blackout Avoidance

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 8

In response to South Africa’s energy challenges, Gridimp and GreenSun’s project addresses Eskom’s regular load shedding, impacting socially disadvantaged communities. The initiative introduces demand-side control using Gridimp’s iDSR technology with AI, aiming to reduce electrical demands during high-price periods. This approach seeks to alleviate financial challenges faced by municipalities like Hessequa, experiencing monthly losses of 3 million rand. The project involves creating new software, integrating IoT sensors, and establishing an interface for microgrid controllers to manage battery charging/discharging. The main impacts include avoiding load shedding, reducing charges to municipalities, and creating a low carbon balancing reserve, aligning with UN objectives and the Energy Trilemma. Additionally, the initiative emphasizes social inclusion through smart energy skills training, supporting GESI, ODA, and leaving a legacy.

Transmission heAlth Monitoring (TAM)

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 3

The TAM project aims to offer the Wind Energy Sector and British Gear Association Partners a Health Monitoring System, enhancing through-life costs, and improving the supply, efficiency, and reliability of UK wind energy. High costs result from frequent, unpredictable failures of high-value transmission components (e.g., gearboxes), preventable with reliable fault detection. This collaborative project aims to explore advanced eddy current sensor and electronics technologies, leveraging research from the University of Oxford and integrating technology transfer from partners in the Aerospace and Defence sectors, along with expertise from the Wind Turbine manufacturing industry.

Helios Thermal Energy Storage System

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 3

Essential for a low-carbon energy system, energy storage enhances grid flexibility and copes with intermittent renewables. Locally, it significantly cuts energy costs. Current commercial solutions are underdeveloped, with high costs limiting market uptake; competitiveness requires a cost per kWh below £0.07.

Micro-SME Helios Limited aims to test a smart combined heat and power energy storage system (TESS). The smart-enabled device utilizes off-peak electricity, storing heat at ~£0.02/kWh in a high-density medium. It employs a Sterling motor for peak-hour electricity generation, using heat losses for water matrix heating. The TESS can also feed energy back into the grid and store renewable energy from sources like solar PV, showcasing a multifunctional, efficient energy storage solution.

SCORRES Smart Control of Rural Renewable Energy & Storage

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

India plans a significant boost in solar energy investment, aiming for a twentyfold increase in the next five years. The SCORRES project focuses on creating replicable, commercially viable smart energy systems for rural and agricultural communities. These systems, incorporating distributed renewable sources, energy storage, control software, and demand management, cater to various stakeholders. The technology, developed and adapted for the Indian market by UK partners, aims to widen electricity access, combat poverty, and enhance lives and health. The project will conduct feasibility trials in a rural village and a vegetable farm, managed by Indian partners, to assess the effectiveness of these smart energy solutions.

Dispatchable Air Conditioning (DAC)

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 7

The DAC project addresses India’s evolving energy landscape, responding to increased electricity demand, intermittent renewables, and rising residential air conditioning usage. It aims to develop a novel control system utilizing existing residential ACs for flexible operating reserve. Through a cloud-based platform, the system adapts AC operations based on grid triggers and time signals, ensuring local thermal comfort. A field trial in Tamil Nadu will validate the approach, guided by stakeholder workshops focusing on system design, business models, and distributional effects. The experienced team, with a three-year track record in Indian grid management, brings expertise in social inclusion, product design, data science, control theory, and sustainable business development.

Monolithic metal-organic framework materials for exceptional natural gas uptake.

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

Traditionally, the storage and transportation of natural gas involve either 1) high compression at 250 bar (CNG) or 2) liquefaction at -162 °C (LNG), both of which are energy-intensive and costly. A more economical third option utilizes a porous material to enable gas adsorption at the molecular level at lower pressures. Immaterial is a company that designs and manufactures porous metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). These MOFs facilitate efficient gas storage without the need for high compression or liquefaction, leading to substantial savings in natural gas transportation and storage. Funding from Innovate UK will support the assessment of the technical feasibility of an industrial-scale process for synthesizing high-value MOF materials.

The Sonskyn Grain Hub

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 8

Promoting access to clean and affordable energy in urban informal settlements

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 7

Ion Ventures and Zonke Energy are collaborating to create a microgrid electrification system for a low-income urban community in South Africa without grid access. This initiative aligns with the energy trilemma, addressing cost, emissions, and security of supply and energy access. With approximately one million households in South African urban informal settlements lacking grid-connected electricity, Zonke, backed by Ion, aims to enhance, and operate a community electrification system. Building on an early prototype, the project emphasizes empowering local partners and communities while facilitating knowledge dissemination within the township and local academic centres.

Protected Anodes for Litium Sulfur Batteries (PALIS)

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 3

The Protected Anodes for Lithium Sulphur Batteries Project (PALIS) project will develop a protected lithium anode for Li-S batteries, mitigating side reactions, resulting in higher performance, energy density, and lower-cost cells for smart grid energy storage. The approach allows replacing critical metals in Li-ion batteries with more economical carbon, sulphur, and lithium. The five consortium combines expertise in novel materials and electrode design, PVD and polymer composite coating, scale-up of electrodes and industrially relevant sized pouch cells, module, pack testing and system design. The project will deliver a module design study, evaluating the performance of new technology components in connection with usage patterns in the energy storage sector.

SwanaSmartStore

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 7

Solar Steam - A novel application of Fresnel lenses as a solar thermal collector to benefit industry.

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

The project aimed to develop an innovative containerized solar thermal system to supply steam for industrial and commercial users in India, addressing the lack of non-polluting steam production alternatives in heavily industrialized areas. The system utilizes Fresnel lenses to concentrate solar energy onto an evacuated tube absorber, generating steam for various applications. Despite cultural and timeline challenges during construction, the as-built system is undergoing testing. The technology has the potential to provide off-grid energy for heating, treating saline and wastewater, cooling, and irrigation in remote areas. It offers economic opportunities, job creation, and poverty alleviation, with a zero carbon footprint and applicability for disaster relief.

Mobile Power’s combined ‘battery-as-a-service’ and ‘vehicle-as-a-service’ business model pilot in rural Nigeria

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 8

Transport in Nigeria relies on expensive, often poor-quality fuel with government subsidies. China and India’s electric vehicle advancements contrast Africa’s power distribution challenge, despite abundant renewable resources. Mobile Power introduces a clean, affordable energy distribution system via MOPO Hubs and smart battery rentals, targeting rural Nigeria. The project replaces household generators, powers electric vehicles, and integrates a biomass pilot. Tearfund Nigeria addresses gender disparities. Meanwhile, JCM Power and RINA pilot a utility-scale battery energy storage system in Malawi’s Golomoti project, aiming to enhance energy output, support national goals, and attract private investment with public funding. The initiative strives to prove BESS viability in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Portable solar powered Electricity Supplies Using Recovered Batteries (PESURB)

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 3

Approximately 600 million people globally lack home electricity but own mobile phones. Charging involves walking to charging stations, connecting phones to car battery chargers, incurring high charges. In parallel, millions of functional lithium-ion batteries are discarded annually. Recycling them for material recovery is expensive, with low reclaimed value. A more sustainable approach is to repurpose batteries with remaining functional lifetimes for new applications.

The project aims to repurpose end-of-life batteries into portable, low-cost, solar cell rechargeable power supply units for phone charging and low-energy lighting. Employing a circular economic approach, these units offer affordable energy for phone charging and low-energy lighting, employing circular economic approach to lithium-ion battery reuse.

Robust Decentralised Low Energy Faecal Sludge Dewatering leading to Sustainable Energy Resource, Sanitation ,and Clean Water

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

Natural Synergies, with partners including the University of Strathclyde, Practical Action, and Blue Vine Consultants, is leading a project on faecal sludge dewatering and treatment for enhanced energy security, sanitation, and GHG emission savings. The study aims to create a stand-alone dewatering process for rural UK/EU, boosting energy efficiency, and decreasing transport costs. In developing countries, the project seeks to establish low-cost faecal sludge management through decentralized sanitation, integrating anaerobic digestion for off-grid energy, local sanitation, and sustainable fertilizers. The system aims to reduce water treatment costs in the UK/EU and promote entrepreneurship, women’s empowerment, and supply chain security in developing countries, fostering job creation in both regions.

Reducing the levelised cost of energy for silicon solar cells through a low-cost efficiency-boosting tandem technology

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

This project aims to prove the technical feasibility of a potentially disruptive technology that can reduce the Levelised Cost of Energy (LCOE) for the widely-available silicon-based photovoltaic (PV) modules by >20%. Navatec has developed a solution-based nanostructured hybrid tandem technology that is printed on top of a silicon solar cell and boosts the module efficiency by >3% (absolute value), producing more electricity from the same unit area.

Use of innovative techniques to ensure Lithium brine supply for the low-cost battery market

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 7

Lithium, the 27th most abundant element, concentrated in South America’s Lithium Triangle, is a key resource, primarily in Bolivia. This project aims to accelerate Bolivia’s lithium production, fostering economic development through responsible and sustainable extraction. Utilizing remote sensing data, the study focuses on creating an efficient workflow for lithium extraction from Uyuni, the world’s largest lithium brine deposit. It involves basin-scale geological analysis, hydrology, and salar characterization, translating into numerical models for optimal wellfield development. The objective is a universal framework for cost-effective global battery production, applicable to various salars.

Planning, integration and Control of mini-grids with Renewables and Energy Storage (Pi-CREST)

REGION

Nigeria, Western Africa

Technology

Other

SECTOR

Energy networks and systems

SCALE

Off Grid

STAGE

Early

ROUND

Round 7

STARFLOAT - multifloat-spar for enabling the economic exploitation of deep water wind

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

Innovative floating foundations enable offshore wind turbines in deeper waters, expanding wind farm possibilities around the Atlantic Margins. Cost-effective solutions are vital for competitiveness and economic viability compared to nearshore wind farms with fixed foundations. Oceanflow Energy’s Starfloat solution utilizes a cost-efficient multifloat-spar structure, enabling the economic development of deep-sea wind farms. The platform also explores addressing freshwater scarcity off the southwest coast of Africa, coupling wind energy with a reverse osmosis plant to potentially replace costly diesel-driven alternatives, demonstrating its viability for both electricity production and freshwater generation based on community needs.

Development of a mobile learning platform for training energy innovators in Zambia

REGION

Zambia, Southern Africa

Technology

Other

SECTOR

Energy networks and systems

SCALE

Off Grid

STAGE

Early

ROUND

Round 7

Microgrid Energy Storage using Lithum-Sulfur Batteries

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 3

OXIS Energy collaborates with the University of Southampton to demonstrate a cost-effective Lithium Sulphur battery for microgrid energy storage. Exploiting OXIS’s core technology with a new electrolyte classification to extend cycle life, the University assesses and tests electrolyte formulations using novel electrochemical techniques. OXIS scales up the electrolytes, characterizing their performance in prototype Li-S battery cells. This project aims to prove the commercial feasibility of the rechargeable battery technology for stationary energy storage, potentially reducing costs, carbon emissions, and enhancing the UK’s energy security by reducing reliance on fossil fuel imports.

PCM Cooling Storage for Building Applications in Developing Countries (PCM-CoolStore)

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 7

Enhancing the Methane Generation from Food Waste Anaerobic Digestion Mediated by Fluidic Oscillator Generated Microbubbles

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

Societal food waste, estimated at 2 billion tonnes annually, poses a significant challenge, with the prospect of increased issues due to population growth and a burgeoning middle class. Disposing of waste through anaerobic digestion (AD) in airtight containers offers a solution, transforming organic matter into biogas and manure while curbing methane emissions. A novel approach enhances AD by introducing periodic CO2 microbubble sparging, boosting methane yield by 110%, and plans include microbubble-mediated mineral carbonation to reduce CO2 content in the biogas. This sustainable energy solution not only improves efficiency but also addresses the global food waste problem, presenting a comprehensive, environmentally conscious waste treatment and energy generation strategy.

Solar Oil

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

Phycofeeds pioneers sustainable, carbon-neutral biofuel and base inputs for food commodities using sunlight, waste, and algae. The innovative technology transforms aquatic waste and biomass into biofuels and nutrient-rich wastewater, utilizing solar energy, hot pressurized water, and nutrient recycling. This process facilitates the production of fish feed and biofuel without fossil fuels, ensuring complete sustainability through water recycling. Phycofeeds’ approach mimics natural energy formation and carbon allocation, providing a revolutionary solution for the biofuels and aquatic biomass food provision industry, addressing environmental concerns, and promoting a sustainable pathway inspired by nature.

PowerBoxx

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 7

Using Energy Storage to Help Climate Change Victims and to Stop Modern Slavery

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

Power Migration Partners Ltd (PMP), a British tech startup, introduces the graphite-sulphur Single-Liquid (SLIQ) flow battery—a cost-effective, durable, and scalable energy solution. Collaborating with the South Asian charity KERA, based in Sri Lanka, PMP forms a consortium to develop a multipurpose Emergency Energy Supply Unit (EESU) for disaster relief. When not deployed for emergencies, the system transforms into an energy storage unit for a Solar PV-powered computer training lab, uplifting vulnerable plantation workers, particularly women and children. This one-year project has the potential to save lives in developing countries while creating a £2.6 billion market opportunity for British businesses by 2020, employing a strategic business model.

Feasibility Study for an Off-Grid, Cutting Edge, Low Cost PV Product

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

Big Solar Limited (BSL) addresses the energy gap for over 1.2 billion people lacking electricity, especially in off-grid rural areas like India, SE Asia, and Africa. Their innovation, Power Roll, is a groundbreaking, ultra-lightweight, and low-cost solar PV product designed to overcome adoption barriers. With a unique technology, Power Roll enables consumers to generate renewable energy at a cost lower than carbon-based options and significantly more affordable than other PV technologies. BSL has proven the concept’s feasibility and is now focusing on applications tailored for rural off-grid communities in India and SE Asia, collaborating with The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) on this transformative project.

Development & demonstration of a unique low cost scalable PV technology

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 5

BSL addresses global energy poverty, with over 1.2 billion lacking electricity. Despite the dramatic growth of solar panel technology, off-grid rural areas in India, SE Asia, and Africa face limited adoption due to high costs. BSL’s PowerRoll is a groundbreaking, ultra-lightweight, and low-cost photovoltaic solution, offering renewable energy at a fraction of the cost of conventional panels. Weighing as little as 2% of current PV products, PowerRoll removes barriers to solar deployment in rural areas. The project focuses on developing and demonstrating applications for Sub-Saharan African, Indian, and SE Asian off-grid communities, collaborating with expert subcontractors and partners, including TERI, Unilever, and Newcastle University.

CORES – Collaboration to Optimise Renewable Energy Systems: Introducing affordable, reliable, portable energy solutions to remote communities in India and Africa.

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 7

Power Roll Ltd (PRL) is at the forefront of solar energy solutions, introducing innovative mini-grid systems in sub-Saharan Africa and the Indian Himalayas. Utilizing patented microgroove architecture, PRL prioritizes disruptive solar energy generation and storage technologies, employing cost-effective roll-to-roll production. The project seeks to showcase a user-friendly energy solution, improving rural life with reliable and affordable electricity. With a focus on social inclusion and gender equality, the initiative provides a distinctive chance to implement renewable energy solutions, bringing positive transformations to daily tasks, quality of life, economic opportunities, and social mobility in diverse communities.

PyroPower Africa Stage 2

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 8

PyroPower, a 100-kW waste-to-energy technology developed by PyroGenesys and ICMEA-UK, aims to convert agricultural waste into renewable electricity, process heat, and biofuels. Part of Energy Catalyst Round 6, the project collaborates with Mobinet for mobile banking services and prioritizes engaging women farmers and disadvantaged groups. ATMANCorp hosts the pilot on a cassava farm, supplying agricultural waste for biofuel production. Aston University focuses on continuous liquid biofuel processes, while Ardova PLC introduces renewable biofuels to the Nigerian market. Lessons from the pilot will inform the rollout of 100 PyroPower installations within Ardova’s filling station network, supported by Mobinet’s SIMPAY for cashless electricity purchases, and Coal Products Limited manages the export of solid biofuels as a renewable alternative to coal.

NICE – Nigeria Intelligent Clean Energy marketplace

REGION

Nigeria, Western Africa

Technology

Other

SECTOR

Energy networks and systems

SCALE

Off Grid

STAGE

Mid

ROUND

Round 6

AF4ENERGY Affordable Energy for Africa – Renewable Energy and Valorisation of Waste Biomass

REGION

Kenya, Eastern Africa

Technology

Biomass biofuels & waste

SECTOR

Energy Generation

SCALE

Mini-Grid

STAGE

Mid

ROUND

Round 7

Development of a small-scale multi-fuelled gasification system in Malawi

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 7

Malawi faces significant energy supply challenges, hindering social, economic, and industrial development. To address this, the consortium led by Refgas Limited, in collaboration with Cambrian Gas Limited and Renew’N’Able Malawi, aims to develop a modular and mobile biomass gasification and compression system. This innovative solution aims to create a low-cost, on-site closed-loop process, generating heat, electricity, and pure syngas from sustainable waste biomass. The syngas can be compressed and bottled, providing affordable bottled gas for household use. The project’s objective is to establish a small-scale (250kW) prototype gasification unit in Dwangwa, Malawi, demonstrating its reliability, affordability, and potential for deployment in rural areas, with replication opportunities across sub-Saharan Africa and other developing countries.

Golomoti, Malawi: Sub-Saharan Africa's first utility-scale solar PV and battery storage project

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 7

JCM Power and RINA are pioneering Sub-Saharan Africa’s first utility-scale solar PV and battery energy storage system in Malawi’s 20MW Golomoti solar project. Launched in 2017, the initiative utilizes advanced lithium-ion battery technology to tackle Malawi’s energy challenges, with over 50% living below the poverty line and only 11.9% having electricity access. Successful implementation will boost Golomoti’s capacity to 28MW, contributing a 6% increase to Malawi’s total installed capacity. Addressing the ‘energy trilemma,’ the project aims to provide affordable and reliable energy, align with national goals, and establish a replicable model for the region. Seeking public funding to mitigate risks, it aims to ensure viability and attract private investment for Golomoti and Malawi’s power sector.

Establishing Mutually Beneficial Local Energy Markets (EMBLEM) Phase 2

Establishing Mutually Beneficial Local Energy Markets 2 (emblem 2) will test the feasibility of peer-to-peer energy trading for the Global South in two novel ways. The first P2P market is an flexible DC nanogrid, where solar home-systems can be interconnected and augmented by additional generation and storage incrementally over time, providing a new approach to energy services in off-grid areas.The second is AC on-grid urban and peri-urban locations where there are significant network constraints and the cost of adding renewable energy is unaffordable. emblem integrates cutting-edge UK innovations from Scene Connect, Swanbarton and Connected Energy Technologies and is supported by international partners Dassy Enterprise and GhamPower in Rwanda and Nepal, respectively. This product will disrupt current energy markets by increasing the viability of small-scale renewable energy installations, and the ability of AC and DC electrical grids to incorporate them.

REGION

Rwanda, Multi-region

TECHNOLOGY

Other

SECTOR

Energy Networks and systems

SCALE

Off Grid

STAGE

Mid

ROUND

Round 6

Establishing Mutually Beneficial Local Energy Markets (EMBLEM)

REGION

Rwanda, Multi-region

TECHNOLOGY

Other

SECTOR

Energy Networks and systems

SCALE

Off Grid

STAGE

Early

ROUND

Round 5

 

 

 

 

 

Sustainable PV Minigrids as an Alternative to Grid Extension in Lesotho

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 7

Automated diagnostics for Solar enabling 'power by the hour'

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

This early-stage feasibility project aims to explore and assess the application of IoT-inspired machine learning technologies for automatic diagnostics, enhancing the efficiency and productivity of solar sites. The project will also examine the potential for a new business model enabled by this high level of automation.

Clean energy for food security - Off Grid Cold Storage System (OGCS)

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 7

Engineered Textile Blade with Actively controlled surface/profile

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 3

Engineered textile blades with load-active control can make a major contribution to solving the UK’s energy trilemma. Reducing the cost of production, transportation and installation of the blades, and increasing the blade efficiency will help to drive the further deployment of on- and offshore wind turbines.

For this project Smar-Azure are exploring the potential to lower the cost and improve the efficiency of wind power generation through actively controlled, textile-covered blades. These blades have the potential to push the boundaries of current technology, improving the design, manufacture, assembly and maintenance of the blades.

Integrated Mini-Grid and Integral Anchor Load Model
for Rural Energy Access in Uganda

REGION

Uganda, Eastern Africa

TECHNOLOGY

Agri-Processing

SECTOR

Productive Uses

SCALE

Mini-Grid

STAGE

Mid

ROUND

Round 7

MInigrid Storage Optimisation through Community Simulations of Demand-Side Management

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 7

Efficient VERsatile Energy Services Solution Through DC - EVERESST DC

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

EVERESST DC champions the DC Micro-Grid Platform (DCMGP), a distinctive product and business solution tailored for organizations aiming to deliver modern energy services to energy-deprived regions. This offering transcends hardware; it embodies a collaborative approach to modern energy access. By actively involving end users and stakeholders, the solution fosters efficiency as an intrinsic aspect of contemporary energy living.

India-UK Innovative Solar Cooling (Indiacool)

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

Solar Fridgenomics

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 7

Development of Low Cost Alkaline Solar Cells

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

Alkali thin film Photovoltaic (PV) technology, patented by Solaris Photonics as APVs, presents a breakthrough in overcoming limitations like heat generation and high production costs associated with traditional PV devices. With a potential efficiency range of 14-30%, this innovation aims to deliver lower-cost electricity generation. The project focuses on advancing the APV towards an optimized functional prototype, ensuring both high efficiency and long-term durability. Using thermal evaporation deposition initially and transitioning to an all-sputtering manufacturing process, the goal is to fabricate high-efficiency, low-cost pre-industrial prototype alkali PV cells. This technology holds the promise of competitive costs compared to conventionally generated electricity at the point of use.

Remote controlled peri-urban nanogrids in sub-Saharan Africa

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 6

ECOSMART:2

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 8

ECOSMART:2 aims to demonstrate the integration of an advanced anaerobic digestion (AD) process with solar technology in Nigeria. Focused on valorising agri/food waste streams like cassava and water hyacinth, the project establishes a circular economy model for affordable, clean, and secure energy access. Leveraging local materials and low-cost components, ECOSMART:2 accelerates the AD process, producing soil amendments and fertilizers for sustainable agriculture. The 4.5-year payback model targets Nigeria’s £7.45Bn microgrid market, fostering enterprise, capacity building, operator training, local manufacturing, and global commercial opportunities for adapted AD and control systems. The project advocates for flexible energy use, affordability, and advancements in demand-side management and microgrid technology, enabling developing countries to bypass expensive centralized infrastructure.

Sustainable Technology for Atmospheric Water Harvesting (WaterSustTech)

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 8

This project aims to address water scarcity, impacting 1/3 of the global population, with a focus on Sub-Saharan Africa, specifically Ethiopia and Sudan. The consortium will conduct a feasibility study on ‘WaterSustTech,’ an innovative Atmospheric Water Harvesting system. The technology utilizes phase change materials to collect drinking water from the air, leveraging night and daytime temperature differences. With approximately 74 million people lacking clean water and over 100 million lacking improved sanitation in both countries, this initiative seeks to provide a simple and effective solution for regions facing prolonged drought exacerbated by climate change. The UK team partners with local experts in Ethiopia and Sudan to ensure the project’s success.

Rice straw to Biogas (R2B) Project

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

Rice, the world’s primary food crop, generates a substantial waste product in the form of stems and leaves (straw), with around 300 million tonnes burned annually in Asia, harming both the environment and human health. This straw, unsuitable for livestock and rice fields due to methane emissions, holds potential as a clean-burning cooking fuel (biogas) through anaerobic digestion. However, economic and processing challenges hinder its utilization. This collaborative project, uniting innovative businesses and leading academics, initiates a field trial in the Philippines, complemented by extensive UK-based lab work. The goal is to create a viable solution benefiting remote rice farming communities, part of the 3 billion globally lacking clean cooking fuel while surrounded by an untapped bioenergy resource.

Rice Straw Biogas Hub

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 8

Rice, a global staple, generates significant straw byproduct, with 300 million tonnes burned annually in Asia, causing health hazards and contributing to climate change. British SME, Straw Innovations Ltd, emerged to tackle this crisis, establishing an industrial pilot plant in the Philippines with Energy Catalyst co-funding. The plant ferments rice straw into clean-burning methane gas, addressing environmental and health concerns. Now operational, the project aims to demonstrate a comprehensive system, covering 500ha of harvesting, straw removal, biogas-powered rice drying and storage, and efficient milling. The “Rice Straw Biogas Hub” offers affordable, value-adding services to farmers, tripling their incomes while safeguarding the environment and promoting sustainable agriculture.

Measuring the environmental, economic and health impacts of deploying the SunstorePowerpan - a combined food processing and electricity generating solar appliance - in townships across South Africa

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 8

Sunstore Technologies has pioneered the Sunstorepowerpan XLM, a solar hybrid cooking and electricity generation unit designed to cook various foods and produce 2000 portions of rice in 24 hours. Ideal for large-volume scenarios like community feeding stations or schools, it can simultaneously generate 200 Watts of electricity using smokeless biochar, exceeding the output of equivalent photo-voltaic panels at a lower cost. The unit, equipped with a solar-tracking water tower, aims to improve the lives of 3.5 billion people dependent on biomass, offering electricity to the 1.2 billion off-grid population, and enhancing human productivity. Deployed at scale, it could significantly reduce global CO2 emissions, combat food and fuel poverty, and provide eco-friendly nutrition and power to off-grid communities.

EMBOSSA: Energy Management in Botswana and Sub Saharan Africa

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

Swanbarton, a UK SME, is set to lead a consortium consisting of the University of Bath, the University of Botswana Clean Energy Research Centre (CERC), and Yuasa Batteries UK. The consortium aims to assess the technical and commercial viability of a system designed to assist electricity consumers in Sub-Saharan Africa. This system seeks to safeguard households and businesses from frequent power cuts in the region, ensuring uninterrupted access to essential services.

GRIPS (Grid Resiliency through Intelligent Photovoltaic & Storage)

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 8

Swanbarton, in collaboration with four organisations, spearheads a project to enhance clean, reliable energy access in Nepal. Focused on improving electricity supply reliability and increasing renewable generation penetration, the initiative aims to reduce pollution and foster economic growth. Gham Power plans to install an integrated solar PV and dual chemistry battery system in Kathmandu for testing power control and monitoring. Swanbarton, HiT Power, and Scene Connect bring innovative battery control, grid-forming conversion, and distribution network monitoring technology to the project. Practical Action Consulting evaluates the solar PV and energy storage market, conducts a gender audit, devises a social inclusion action plan, and examines clean energy’s impact on workforce recruitment.

WindSurf- Smart energy for the 21st century

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 3

Traditional wind turbines excel in steady air, prompting remote placement for consistent wind. AutarkE notes customers’ desire for proximity to light industrial operations but cautions against it due to inefficiency in handling the swirling, variable wind at such sites. This project introduces WindSurf, a radical re-design of a vertical axis wind turbine for efficient urban operation. Its patented control tech enables self-starting in winds as low as 3m/s. Seeking funding for a 16.4kW prototype, design certification, production facility establishment, and commercial launch.

YETIS Yes to Energy Through Innovative Sensing

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 6

This project will address the problem of poor reliability of electricity supply in developing countries, focussing on a representative test case, Nepal. Leveraging cutting-edge distributed instrumentation and control technology from UK start-up Synaptec, it aims to enhance power grid efficiency and increase supply availability for large populations. The consortium will develop key elements of Synaptec’s technology with an innovative approach that offers cost-effective visibility into the power grid, enabling targeted and automated responses for efficiency gains in energy transport and intermittent generation connection. The technology’s implementation will impact NEA’s operations, facilitate product development and market access for Synaptec and ITL, and contribute to knowledge dissemination by RTOs. Keywords: distributed sensing & control; power grid management; smart grids.

Pre-commercial technology validation of a clean cold renewable syngas production plant.

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 3

Syngas Products Group Limited developed a full-scale Advanced Thermal Treatment (ATT) plant to thermally recycle non-recyclable household and commercial waste into clean synthetic gas. This technology aims to (1) locally reduce transportation emissions by employing a small modular scale, (2) enhance energy security by utilizing non-recyclable waste fractions, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and (3) decrease energy costs by repurposing raw fuel stock, currently exported, to displace fossil fuels in industries like brickworks, lime producers, and ceramics producers. This process speeds up commercial deployment, attracting additional investment, and offers a renewable baseload fuel source in the gas market.

TUPROOFS - Thermal under PV roofing SIP

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 3

The TUPROOFS project explores innovative ways to integrate PV and Solar Thermal technologies on roofs, focusing on newly built and Passivhaus-level residential and commercial structures, as well as refurbishments. It considers on-site deployment, IPR export, and delivering energy to rural areas in developing countries, aiming to support local industry, employment, and access to light and communication, potentially slowing migration to cities. The project anticipates the creation of a joint venture among partners to capitalize on the technology and knowledge developed.

Powering Isolated Territories with Hydrogen Energy Systems

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

ESS for combined services

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 7

Tide Mills UK & Africa (TiMUKA)

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

The TiMUKA (Tide Mills UK & Africa) project seeks to revitalize the UK’s historical tide mills, originally numbering over 200. These mills, employing water mills driven by tidal forces, trace their roots back to 60 AD on the Thames. The initiative aims to restore these mills in the UK using advanced technologies and civil engineering methods, with an eye towards implementing similar systems in developing nations, beginning with Sub-Saharan Africa. Led by Tide Mills Limited, supported by Mojo Maritime, the project leverages groundbreaking work from leading UK tidal energy experts. Its ambitious agenda is to swiftly deliver clean, renewable, and predictable tidal energy on a community scale, commencing in the UK and Africa before expanding globally.

DAEDALUS: Reaching the sun with solarcoins and smart solar panels

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

Despite being a middle-income country, India contends with unreliable local electricity grids causing extended outages. The solution focuses on innovative business and financing models for rooftop solar panels, replacing local diesel generators, and improving access to clean energy amid declining costs and subsidies. Ongoing examination explores how blockchains and cryptocurrencies, like SolarCoins, can incentivize investors and facilitate loan repayments for secure local trading of solar power. The integration of smart card chips with solar panels, linked to distributed ledger technology, becomes a key enabler, tracking assets and preventing fraud. The University of Hertfordshire’s testbed highlights cryptocurrency, distributed ledger, and smart solar panel advantages, promoting skills exchange with DFiD-supported partners in South Asia or sub-Saharan Africa.

African off-grid solar power and mobile connectivity

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

Ubuntu Power is a socially driven business focused on providing affordable solar power and unrestricted Internet to off-grid communities in Sub-Saharan Africa, starting with Kenya. Our mission is to kick-start a virtuous cycle of economic growth in underserved communities by providing them with two of the most pivotal and empowering services: Clean and affordable electricity and greater access to information.

SolaFin2Go

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 5

The SolaFin2Go initiative tackles the challenge of affordable standalone solar systems in sub-Saharan Africa, testing entry-level solutions with innovative photovoltaic and solar thermal technologies. Financed through enhanced PAYG models using Mobile, Cloud, and Blockchain tech, it adapts to community needs for basic electrification and hot water. Integrating partner technologies, it strives for a cost-effective standalone solar solution aligned with SE4All and Botswana’s plans. This integrates PV, battery storage, and solar thermal tech under a customer-centric platform, promising economic growth in rural areas and has significant potential to add to economic momentum in rural communities and to Transform Energy Access (TEA) for all.

Low cost high energy density anode for stationary energy storage

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 3

This project assesses the feasibility of bulk synthesis of a low-cost high-energy density anode for sodium ion batteries (NIB). Recent neglect of NIB technology shifted focus to Li-ion systems, emphasizing essential materials developments necessary to ensure NIB is a commercially viable alternative to Li-ion batteries (LIB). Research at the UCL will include the synthesis of nanoparticle materials, which, once made into small rechargeable sodium-ion batteries, will be tested in SHARP UK labs. The project then scales up the most high-performing materials, validating them in larger cells for further assessment.

Improving off-grid energy and water access through innovative passive-thermal technologies.

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 7

Development of a sustainable solid-state barocaloric cooler

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 4

The proposed research project is aimed at developing an affordable energy-efficient solid-state cooler that is based on caloric materials. Switching to such affordable efficient cooling technology would reduce the power consumption that is required for refrigeration and air-conditioning, which is rapidly increasing in low-income and lower-middle-income developing countries and would obviate the need for greenhouse gases. This would ease the looming energy crisis, help protect the environment, and promote the welfare and economic development of a large number of developing countries, for example by permitting setting up widespread cold chains for perishable foodstuffs, or vaccines.

Optimisation of Wind Energy O&M Decision Making Under Uncertainty

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 3

Wind energy is key to future decarbonization if costs can be reduced. This project develops a concept using data for quick, reliable decision-making in wind farm operations, reducing costs. Wind turbine data, encompassing temperature, weather, and sea conditions, requires a control room engineer’s action to be truly useful. This project innovatively combines advanced visualization, health systems from UK SMEs, and decision theory from academia to create a cost-effective decision-making system for wind farm operators.

Next generation concentrated solar power technology

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 8

Vector Sustainable Energy Ltd seeks to address Sudan’s energy shortages by commercializing an innovative Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) technology. The project aims to deploy a cost-effective CSP system, potentially reducing startup costs by 62%, offering secure and affordable solar energy with enhanced efficiency and a smaller land footprint. With Sudan heavily reliant on wood burning, facing deforestation and limited renewable energy use, Vector’s solution aims to revolutionize energy production, contributing to carbon savings and leveraging Sudan’s untapped solar potential. The project’s goal is to develop a working steel prototype, generating essential data for investor attraction, scalability, and commercialization. Aligned with global sustainability goals, the initiative provides rural energy solutions, supports agriculture, and addresses health and environmental challenges.

Distributed pumped micro-hydro for transforming energy and water access

COUNTRY:

Uganda

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 6

Water Powered Technologies Ltd’s (WPT) zero-energy pumps harness excess surface water to generate hydro power for communities in remote areas. Operating continuously, WPT’s patented pumps are deployed in 22+ countries. This project aims to involve women in product assembly by providing formal support and adapting systems for use in drought-prone regions. Up to 30 Papa pumps will be donated and installed in Uganda and Malawi, promoting water movement for power generation and agriculture. The initiative seeks to explore inclusive social groups for assembling and supplying systems, fostering technical and business model innovations to create jobs in marginalized communities.

Distributed pumped micro-hydro for transforming energy and water access

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 6

Water Powered Technologies Ltd’s (WPT) zero-energy pumps harness excess surface water to generate hydro power for communities in remote areas. Operating continuously, WPT’s patented pumps are deployed in 22+ countries. This project aims to involve women in product assembly by providing formal support and adapting systems for use in drought-prone regions. Up to 30 Papa pumps will be donated and installed in Uganda and Malawi, promoting water movement for power generation and agriculture. The initiative seeks to explore inclusive social groups for assembling and supplying systems, fostering technical and business model innovations to create jobs in marginalized communities.

Wind Turbine Blade Optical HEalth Monitoring (BOHEM)

FUNDING ROUND:

Round 3

This project will develop a wind turbine blade health monitoring system using digital cameras and optical markers inside the blade. The system, optimized for real-time monitoring in various conditions, utilizes digital image correlation to track markers, characterizing blade dynamics for onshore and offshore turbines. Output data in all weather conditions enables real-time assessment of blade structural condition. The feasibility study optimizes camera layout, illumination, and markers based on real blade design and structural properties, validated in a 7MW wind turbine.