Solar-hydrogen microgrid with dedicated fresh-water production for Bandjoun, Cameroon

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Innovate UK
Innovate UK
Innovate UK
Innovate UK
Innovate UK

£1,046,765

March 1, 2023

Feb. 29, 2024

Increasing concerns about climate change, including desertification, requires the development of accessible clean energy solutions for the world's least developed regions. The conversion of the large resource of solar energy in such regions into clean Hydrogen (H2) fuel and fresh water, offers an effective solution. This has a significant impact on gender equality and social inclusion since the collection of wood for cooking fuel and water collection is a burden on women in these societies.

Technological improvements are reducing the cost of H2 production, making it increasingly attractive (40% cheaper by 2030 \[IRENA, 2020\]). The public in the UK and abroad are demanding policy changes, and in response, 33 countries have declared a climate emergency \[CEDAMIA, 2021\]. Cost reduction of renewable energy sources will drive the future implementation of decentralised Green H2 production systems in places with abundant renewable energy.

The objective of this project is to develop an innovative energy solution for urban areas in Africa characterised by abundant solar energy. The system will integrate modular technologies and a 'Plug & Play' approach to Green H2 and clean water production using intermittent solar power sources.

The benefits for the local community are: a) use hydrogen as an energy storage medium to provide continuous power supply throughout the day and night b) additional clean water available to the community c) carbon-free fuel replacing oil-derivatives for heating and electrical appliances d) reducing congestion on the grid with a decentralised power system e) generate hydrogen as cooking fuel and fresh water to alleviate burdens on the female gender.

This project is conducted in collaboration with the solar energy company Universo, based in Bandjoun, Cameroon and the local authorities of Bandjoun to demonstrate a clear example application.

There are four key innovations: 1) develop a novel power flow and energy storage technique for the electrolysis of water using intermittent solar power; 2) use of representative mathematical models of major equipment components at high TRLs (= 7) that will enable the system to be rapidly moved to demonstration and exploitation 3) design a modular system with Plug & Play features to minimise complexity and the need for external expertise to manage it over the long-term 4) implement an effective way of storing and transporting hydrogen for applications in urban areas.

Successful project implementation will unlock and de-risk future investments in Bandjoun and similar regions. It will generate new income for BPP and Universo.