Power Roll Ltd (PRL), is an innovator in the solar power renewable energies sector, applying to lead a partnership to develop, test and implement innovative solar mini grid systems in two locations: sub-Saharan Africa and the Indian Himalayas. We are developing disruptive solar energy generation and energy storage technologies, based on our unique, patented breakthrough microgroove architecture, which allows us to exploit well established, roll-to-roll (R2R) manufacturing processes, enabling a transformational, low cost manufacturing process for affordable energy generation products. This 24-month project will allow PRL to work in India and Africa with our partners The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) and VeroGrid (UK & Africa), as well as our experienced sub-contractors, to develop and demonstrate a unique, easy to use energy generation, storage and supply solution. The aim is to improve the lives of people living in rural communities by providing secure access to affordable electricity and assess social inclusion and gender equality benefits to local communities. The target locations Mukteshwar, India, and Mumbachala, Ngabwe District, Zambia share similar hardships borne out of harsh climates and levels of development in comparison to the rest of the world, but different continents and cultures. These factors underpin the challenge to develop a reliable power supply that is portable, low-cost, scalable, and sustainable. This is a
unique opportunity to draw on the knowledge and expertise of key partners and sub-contractors to deploy innovative renewable energy solutions that meet the needs of diverse communities and positively impact the scope of efficiencies of daily tasks, quality of life, economic capabilities and social mobility. Although the solar mini-grid sector is at an embryonic stage developmentally in the Global South, it holds great potential for rural off-grid and weak-grid communities in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, which might enable them to contribute to achieving the requirements of national action plans. Power Roll is working in partnership with highly experienced organisations, forming a Collaboration to Optimise Renewable Energy Systems (CORES) aims to embed affordable solar power generation and storage solutions to support food security and nutrition, regenerative agriculture, access to water and development of holistic ecosystems. Renewable energy coupled with organic agricultural practice or energy efficient cooling systems can be the answer to lowering carbon emissions and improving the shelf-life of perishable foods. Such impact will be felt amongst local governing agencies, smallholder farmers, fishers, market traders and families.