10109560Zero Emission Power Generation Using PCM Thermal Battery (ZeroEPowerGen)ClosedFeasibility StudiesInnovate UKThe ZeroEPowerGen project, led by the UK-based company, PCM Products Ltd., in partnership with Nigeria's Rubitec Ltd, and the University of Nottingham, marks a significant advancement in zero-emission power generation technology. This innovative project leverages solar energy to enhance the Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) system, integrating it with ground-breaking supercooled Phase Change Material (PCM) energy storage. This integration ensures stable and continuous energy delivery without carbon emissions, a critical feature in Nigeria's diverse solar energy landscape. At the heart of ZeroEPowerGen is the ORC-PCM combination, which allows for uninterrupted power generation. This system innovatively utilises a modified vehicle AC scroll compressor, creating a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional ORC expanders. The project employs eco-friendly natural hydrocarbon refrigerants such as Isopentane, Isobutane, and Propane, chosen specifically for their minimal environmental impact. ZeroEPowerGen's design is uniquely tailored for domestic and small business applications in Nigeria. It features an ORC unit integrated with a supercooled PCM storage cylinder, closely resembling a standard electric hot water cylinder. This design choice not only simplifies installation but also enhances space efficiency. The system's thermal efficiency, ranging between 18-20%, adjusts to various solar collector temperatures, providing adaptability to different environmental conditions. A key focus of the ZeroEPowerGen project is on energy storage and management. The supercooled PCM technology is central to this, enabling the system to store solar energy efficiently and release it consistently, ensuring power availability even during periods of low solar intensity. This aspect of the project is crucial in regions like Nigeria, where solar energy availability can vary significantly. The current phase of the ZeroEPowerGen project is primarily centred around research and development of a feasibility study. The consortium is dedicated to conducting comprehensive studies and developing prototypes to evaluate the feasibility of this innovative technology. PCMP's vision with ZeroEPowerGen is to significantly reduce global carbon emissions while promoting the adoption of renewable energy, especially in emerging markets. Rubitec Ltd, a Nigerian company specialising in various renewable energy solutions, brings its extensive experience in solar and inverter systems to the project, aligning perfectly with the goals of ZeroEPowerGen. The project aims to provide a reliable, low-maintenance power source, contributing to the sustainable development of energy infrastructures.