MatZero: Clean energy and heat solution for refugee communities

Partners: Mat Zero Heat

Country: Nepal

Technology: Low energy inclusive appliances

Stage: Early

Stage: Round 10

It is estimated that 33 million refugees need life-sustaining heating in locations where temperatures drop below 10°C in winter or at night. However, current heating methods used in displacement settings include diesel heaters and burning kerosene, firewood, and gas canisters, which lead to fires, release toxic fumes, and harm the environment. On top of that, they are expensive costing around $300 per refugee household per year.

Solar PV systems can reduce CO2 emissions by 45-70 g CO2/kWh compared to fossil fuel-based solutions. With PV costs dropping, clean heating solutions are becoming financially viable. Mat Zero Heat Ltds solar-powered heating solution creates safer, better and greener heating. This project will take place in Nepal to validate the prototype system. Additional goals are to capture user feedback, assess the feasibility of successful use, and identify ways to maximise the social impact the product achieves in Nepal and beyond.