How can rural communities harness opportunities to improve energy sustainability while improving health and boosting local economies? What is the role of rural households in the energy transition in the fight against climate change? And how can farmers maximize renewable energy and energy efficient technologies to improve productivity while fostering sustainable agriculture practices?
Rural areas are uniquely positioned to capitalize on clean energy technologies due to their access to local natural resources and potential for innovative, decentralized energy systems. This chapter explores an array of proven, frontier and horizon technologies that support rural communities in meeting energy challenges while addressing broader climate and sustainable development goals.
Introduction
The energy transition is not just for cities
Energy is consumed in rural areas for a variety of critical functions including residential needs, agricultural operations, water supply and sanitation, and community services. Addressing the unique energy needs of rural areas involves overcoming infrastructure challenges. Grid connection in rural areas is often challenging due to long distances, difficult terrain, low population density, high capital investment and regulatory barriers.
Integrating green energy technologies into rural electrification efforts not only supports climate goals but also improves resilience and quality of life for rural communities
Fortunately, a multitude of innovative energy solutions is now available in rural areas, enabling residents to reap benefits ranging from electricity access to cost savings to energy independence. Decentralized renewable energy systems can help fill the energy access gap in remote areas while promoting the uptake of renewable energy and energy efficiency solutions. Integrating these technologies into rural electrification efforts not only supports climate goals but also improves resilience and quality of life for rural communities.
Challenges in rural areas overcome with decentralized renewable energy
The number of people with access to decentralized renewable energy solutions, including solar home systems (SHSs) and mini-grids, rose from 12 million in 2010 to 39 million in 2019 (
Micro-grids and mini-grids are serving rural communities in both developing and industrialized countries alike, building resilience and providing adaptation advantages to populations at risk of grid outages and weather events. Residents desiring more energy independence can capitalize on these systems in areas with lacking or unstable grid connections.
Rural households and communities are taking advantage of the falling costs of solar PV and policies promoting clean energy. Solar panels and SHSs have become more affordable and efficient, providing a reliable source of electricity for rural areas. Innovations across a host of different appliances, including solar lanterns, fans, water pumps and refrigerators, offer advanced technology, affordability and practicality. Small-scale wind turbines generate electricity for rural households and communities, while small hydroelectric systems harness the energy of flowing water in rivers or streams. New financing plans such as pay-as-you-go solar models allow users to pay for energy access in small, manageable installments, while modular and scalable systems enable easy expansion as needs evolve.
Community solar drives the democratization of the energy transition
In the United States of America, community solar projects are booming; cumulative community solar installations are slated to surpass 14 GW direct current (DC) in existing state markets by 2028
Prosumers also on the rise
Prosumers (who produce, use, store or sell electricity back to the grid) are increasing in rural areas, which is driving demand for decentralized energy production, energy storage systems and energy management software, as well as new technologies like blockchain
Energy storage solutions are seeing rapid innovation, boding well for rural areas
Given the natural intermittency of renewable energy sources, battery storage systems are crucial, making this a fast-growing sector. In fact, battery storage in the power sector was the fastest growing commercially available energy technology in 2023, with deployment more than doubling year-on-year
Advances in battery technologies, such as lithium-ion batteries, are improving energy storage from renewable sources and enabling a stable power supply. Flow batteries and gravity storage are being explored for larger-scale energy storage need in rural communities to balance intermittent renewable energy. These can last long periods in the absence of electricity production from renewable sources.
The rise of the clean cookstove, a silver bullet of sorts
Nearly one-third of the global population still relies on rudimentary cooking methods with serious consequences in terms of air pollution, health impacts and deforestation (
Anaerobic biodigesters also gaining traction
The use of biogas digesters is rising in both developed and developing countries. Its expansion in Africa and parts of Asia and South America has been driven by governmental and non-governmental institutional support over the last several decades. These systems convert organic and agricultural waste (like animal dung and crop residue) into biogas that can be used for lighting and cooking, and to operate on-farm machinery. Biogas from biodigesters can replace traditional fuels like wood or charcoal, which helps tackle deforestation. The leftover slurry produced is a valuable organic fertilizer that enhances soil fertility, which is particularly beneficial for smallholder farmers. This chapter presents small-scale and modular technologies for rural households and communities, alongside other solutions more suited to small farms.
Agriculture technologies increase productivity while saving energy
Agriculture is the backbone of rural society and the central economic activity in many regions globally. Enhancing agricultural productivity is essential to food security and livelihoods. The key challenge facing the agriculture sector is how to continue expanding production while increasing its sustainability. Unfortunately, past innovation driven by access to fossil fuels has enhanced agricultural productivity while simultaneously increasing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, deforestation, soil degradation, water pollution and resource depletion
The agrifood chain, comprising on-farm and post-harvest production, retail and transport, accounts for 30 percent of the total energy used globally
Energy is required for all inputs, machinery, irrigation and post-harvest processing associated with agriculture. The agrifood chain, comprising on-farm and post-harvest production, retail and transport, accounts for 30 percent of the total energy used globally
Thus, agriculture is a major source of GHG emissions across the agrifood system, yet can also be part of the mitigation solution through carbon sequestration in soils and biomass. This chapter, however, highlights energy technologies for agrifood systems for on-farm and post-harvest activities.
On-farm agriculture benefits from energy efficiency and renewables
Farmers everywhere look for tools and solutions that maximize productivity with fewer costs and less risk. This means that farmers often need information and education on new technologies and lower risk methods by which to experiment with technologies, as achieved through leasing, rental, or cooperative agreements and pay-as-you-go services that offer savings on up-front costs.
Precision agriculture supports energy efficiency using global positioning system (GPS) and geographical information system (GIS) technologies, as these systems enable precise mapping and management of fields, optimizing planting, irrigation and fertilization and minimizing excess use. Technologies such as drip irrigation, smart irrigation systems and recent innovations that measure stem water potential contribute to water and energy efficiency, water conservation and ultimately more sustainable farming practices. Farm management software solutions are using sensors to improve farmer decision-making and optimize farming operations. IoT devices collect data from sensors, improving monitoring and automated responses in fluctuating conditions. The use of solar-powered water pumps for agriculture and residential needs is expanding in developing countries. They enhance energy efficiency by using renewable energy, reducing operational costs and providing reliable water access in a sustainable fashion.
Agrivoltaics and aquavoltaics are dual-use systems that maximize the use of natural resources for renewable energy and food production. Agrivoltaics allow for the co-location of solar panels and agricultural activities on the same land, while aquavoltaics achieve similar ends by placing solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on the surface of bodies of water such as lakes, reservoirs or ponds. These systems offer environmental, economic and operational benefits.
Post-harvest innovation plays a big role in greening food production and processing systems
Energy-efficient equipment reduces energy consumption in post-harvest processing and can also reduce costs. Mini-grids are used for post-harvest processes, including milling, oil-pressing and ice-making, but these need further scaling. Solar milling and drying technologies, which dry crops efficiently and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, are available but are largely in the pilot phase and need further uptake in developing countries compared to solar for on-farm or residential energy consumption
Dryers in developed countries are benefiting from the expansion of automated systems to regulate temperature, airflow and drying time to ensure consistent drying conditions and save energy. Sensors measure grain moisture content to prevent over-drying or under-drying. Additionally, continuous flow dryers and modern batch dryers improve energy efficiency for small to medium-scale operations.
Dairy processing, too, is the site of much innovation particularly for nonthermal technologies used in food processing. Membrane-based technologies are a boon to energy-intensive dairy processing activities like sterilization and pasteurization. Other nonthermal innovations include pulsified electrified fields and high-pressure processing for milk preservation.
Cold storage innovation curbs energy use and combats food loss and waste
Food loss due to deficient cold chain management is a significant global issue. The shortage of efficient cold chains is responsible for 9 percent of perishable food loss in developed countries and more than 17 percent in developing countries
Refrigeration systems have advanced in recent years, as more attention has turned to the need for environmentally friendly refrigerants with lower global warming potentials (GWPs). Innovations in refrigeration have fortified the cold chain across all industries. Solar PV has again come to the rescue of refrigeration and freezer appliances, with solar fridges and freezers, walk-in rooms and mobile cold rooms proliferating in recent years, especially in Asia and Africa. Modern cold storage facilities are embracing energy-efficient solutions, as technologies that enable controlled atmosphere storage are becoming more common in silos and warehouses used for cold storage. Electric refrigerated transport systems ensure that optimal conditions are maintained throughout the supply chain. Fisheries and aquaculture benefit from energy-efficient pumps, aerators and water circulators, alongside renewable energy integration.
Green energy solutions for rural households
Globally, 760 million people are without access to electricity. Even after efforts to extend electricity access outpaced population growth in 2013, the number of people lacking electricity in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) rose from 580 million in 2019 to 600 million in 2022 due to increased complications resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions affecting energy markets
Household energy access is integral to daily lives in rural areas for cooking, cleaning, heating, cooling, lighting, working, washing and leisure activities. Innovation and technologies for energy conservation, energy efficiency and renewable energy can help mitigate climate change while granting rural populations energy access as well as opportunities to improve their health and resilience, energy independence, carbon footprints and overall quality of life.
Technological developments and trends
Energy access in rural areas is still lagging in parts of the world
There is often a stark divide between energy access in urban and rural areas. Electrification efforts face a myriad of obstacles inherent to rural and remote or isolated communities. Expanding energy access to rural populations occurs more slowly than in urban areas. This is in part due to the simple reality that lower population densities and larger areas render it expensive and inefficient. Difficulties may also be exacerbated by technical complexity, grid extension obstacles, deficient access roads, weak policies and natural disasters
Impacts of rural household energy on emissions
Household energy use contributes roughly half of black carbon emissions while also emitting methane and carbon monoxide through inefficient combustion
In order to achieve universal sustainable energy access by 2030, technologies that decarbonize energy use will be necessary
According to the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) Net Zero Emissions by 2050 scenario, the first half of the population to gain access to electricity by 2030 will rely on off-grid solutions such as mini-grids (31 percent) and standalone systems (25 percent), and roughly 90 percent of new connections in this scenario are based on renewable energy, largely solar and wind
Rise of mini- and micro-grids in rural areas
Rural areas are increasingly overcoming electrification impediments with micro-grids and mini-grids. Mini-grids are sets of small-scale electricity generators interconnected to a distribution network that supply electricity to a small, localized group of customers
Renewable energy mini-grids provide reliable and high-quality electricity when grid extension is not a viable option
Both mini-grids and micro-grids can complement national or larger power grids, maintain supply during outages and restore electricity supply faster, and importantly, they can support rural communities in gaining more reliable access to electricity
Solar PV technologies save the day
Currently, three main types of solar panel technologies are used for residential solar installations: monocrystalline, polycrystalline and thin-film. Monocrystalline panels exhibit high efficiency and produce more power output per square meter than other types, therefore rendering them ideal for areas with limited space – like rooftops. However, they’re slightly more costly. Polycrystalline panels can be produced cheaply and quickly, albeit with lower efficiency. Thin-film solar panels are flexible and light, and despite lower efficiency, they are finding new value when used in technologies such as agrivoltaics, where flexibility is necessary to provide for varying optimum shading levels for plants and crops growing in tandem with PV installations
SHSs for off-grid access and energy storage
Renewable technologies provide electricity access to so-called last-mile communities. Solar PV technology for off-grid solutions has been increasingly deployed in rural areas, due in part to its modularity, and of course its utility in areas with abundant sunshine
Table 3.1 gives a brief comparison of SHS evolution from 2G to 3G.
Hybrid solar systems or hybrid renewable energy sources (HRES) integrate solar panels and battery energy storage, and grid connectivity. If the back-up battery is full, the electricity generated from energy collected from PV panels is transmitted to the electricity grid. The solar system can recharge the battery if there is a prolonged grid outage. Hybrid systems can thus be useful in grid-connected areas, as they can operate independently in emergencies while maximizing the reliability of the grid and leveraging both solar and grid power to optimize efficiency. Figure 3.1 depicts global trends of off-grid solar PV adoption for SHSs greater than 50 W, solar PV mini-grids, other off-grid solar PV, and solar pumps.
Pico PV
Pico solar PV systems are small-capacity plug-and-play devices that generate fewer watts of power than larger PV systems. Pico, meaning “very small” is emerging as a category of low-power solar PV electric systems that can power residential LED lighting and other small household portable appliances and chargers. They have the advantage of modularity and can be installed in small expandable units, making it easier to build up a system over time. The power output of pico solar cells ranges from 0.1 to 5 watts-peak (Wp) for powering portable devices and charging, while systems of 15–20 Wp are used for larger devices and home use
Prosumers benefit from renewable energy technologies and can sell back excess energy
As mentioned in Chapter 2, homeowners can become “prosumers” of energy rather than just consumers (also called active consumers or renewable energy self-consumers) when they adopt renewable energy technologies if they have grid access. Certain systems allow residents to sell excess energy back to the grid. With the help of cutting-edge applications, they can even support prosumers in determining the cheapest times of day to charge systems, enabling them to sell back electricity during peak pricing.
Energy-saving household appliances are abundant
Rural household appliances powered by renewables include refrigerators, televisions, lighting, fans and cooking devices, and offer up a more climate-friendly alternative to diesel-fueled systems and kerosene-based appliances. Technologies for solar lanterns, fans, cookers, refrigerators, water pumps
other home appliances have been in use for several decades but have proliferated in rural areas and are now easy to find – if at times they remain expensive. In higher-income countries, the convenience of solar-powered devices and appliances, and even SHSs, has gained traction in areas prone to power outages, or where residents desire to be off the grid. Therefore, interest in the off-grid appliances market is growing
Additionally, an increasing number of manufacturers entering the off-grid home appliance market alongside falling prices have facilitated a faster transition of mature household products to full commercialization, including fans, televisions and refrigerators. Advances in energy-efficient motors have also increased energy savings. For example, the use of permanent magnet (PM) motors can reduce appliance energy consumption by 22 to 42 percent
The PM motor penetration for refrigeration is slated to jump from 65 percent in 2020 to 88 percent in 2025 in South Asia and from 41 percent to 59 percent in SSA, while the same increase is predicted for solar water pumps (60 percent in 2020 to 100 percent in 2025 in both South Asia and SSA) and washing machines (33 percent to 53 percent in south Asia and 51 percent to 67 percent in SSA)
Rural household appliances maximize solar power
Solar water heaters
Active solar water heater systems use circulating pumps and controls to transfer heat from collector panels to a storage tank, while passive systems rely on natural convection to move the water, are much slower and are generally used in small applications. Simply put, residents can determine which type they need depending on whether the water supply has sufficient pressure to transfer water. Heat pumps, solar air collectors, insulation and other heating and cooling technologies can be found in the Green Technology Book edition on climate change mitigation, accessible here.
Off-grid refrigeration
Off-grid refrigerator manufacturers have typically used three types of refrigerants, propane (R290), isobutane (R600a) and 1,1,2-tetrafluoromethane (R134a), of which the latter is classified as a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) and a potent GHG with a high GWP of 1,430 over a 100-year timescale. Strikingly, the GWPs of R600 and R290 are both rated at only 3. Currently, the majority of off-grid refrigerator manufacturers continue to use high GWP refrigerants; however, some leading manufacturers have begun transitioning to climate-friendly refrigerants, and policies prohibiting the use of high-GWP refrigerants can help to accelerate this transition
The popularity of freezers and multi-temperature refrigerators (with compartments that can serve as either refrigerator or freezer) has recently risen, and these are currently the most prevalent on the market. DC refrigerators are limited due to higher costs, reliance on traditional AC models and a continued lack of investment in DC market and development in several countries due to customer preference to continue relying on AC units paired with inverters, for which they are already equipped. This occurs because solar panels produce DC electricity, but most household appliances and the grid use AC electricity. An inverter is needed to convert the DC electricity from the solar panels into AC electricity.
Solar direct drive is a newer technology in limited availability on the market that bypasses the use of a battery and charge controller, and instead uses solar energy to freeze water or other phase-change material (or ice bank), the cooling of which is then used to keep the refrigerator cold. The name derives from the fact that the refrigerator is connected directly to the solar PV panel
Solar fans
Fans are decent cooling solutions and will be increasingly important as climate change exacerbates extreme heat. They are relatively inexpensive and technologically straightforward. The fan market in SSA has recently expanded, especially in West Africa, where it contributed 40 percent of 2022 global sales. The off-grid fan market accounted for 60 percent of all appliances during the second half of 2022 with South Asia topping off-grid fan sales
Newer solutions integrate brushless direct current (BLDC) and PM motors, which can cut energy consumption in half. Improving fan blade design renders further efficiency, such as tapered and twisted blade designs that can enable higher airflow at the same speed, increasing fan efficiency by as much as 15 percent
Solar water pumps
During the last 20 years, the solar water pump market has grown significantly due to the reduced cost of PV panels, increased support of national governments, and expanded system capacity and efficiency
Additionally, water purification technologies are progressing in this area, as seen in ultraviolet (UV) water treatment systems, and the invention of hydropanels that draw in ambient air, forcing it through a water-absorbing material to capture water vapor and condense it into liquid water.
Further consideration of solar water pumps is provided in the section “Green energy solutions for agriculture on-farm” below.
Unlocking the multiple wins of clean cookstoves in rural areas
Access to safe and sustainable cooking fuels and technologies is a critical component of addressing both energy poverty and food security
In households, globally, about 35 percent of the population used wood fuel for cooking in 2019, with 37 percent relying on liquefied propane gas (LPG), natural gas or biogas and 10 percent on electricity
Importantly, a lack of technologies will not hinder reaching universal access to clean cooking, as the solutions are known; funding and implementation capacity are proving a more formidable hurdle
There are a multitude of benefits to clean cookstoves, including significantly reduced air pollution, fuel-use savings, decreased deforestation and faster cooking. Electric stoves deliver efficiencies in both labor and time; however, inadequate access to reliable electricity remains a substantial barrier to uptake – especially in rural areas. Here, technological progress toward cheaper PVs and efficient cooking appliances with integrated battery systems have improved the situation; however, they remain expensive for many rural households. Improved biomass cookstoves (ICSs) present a decent transitional option in rural areas. ICSs decrease biomass use compared to traditional stoves by 20 to 75 percent depending on efficiencies, which renders benefits through reduced smoke production
Thus, a variety of options are available, and though most do offer energy savings, many do not substantially reduce CO2 emissions and other harmful pollutants. Biogas is increasingly being employed in rural areas, alongside solar cookers, which use solar radiation to concentrate heat on a cooking vessel.
Given the increasing ubiquity and benefits of solar energy in rural households, these are good options to reduce social, economic and environmental costs of black soot and CO2 emissions. Achieving clean cooking access can save up to 1.5 Gt CO2eq by 2030
Trash to treasure: waste-to-energy technologies are transforming household waste
Waste-to-energy systems for households serve many functions and provide a host of benefits for homeowners and the climate. Biogas is a renewable energy source that can be created during the anaerobic digestion process from all types of organic materials, including plant and animal products when they are broken down by bacteria in an anaerobic (or oxygen-free) environment in reactors. Biogas reactors are scalable solutions ranging from farm-level to large industrial installations. Biogas is renewable and can be used for heating, lighting, cooking, as a transport fuel, and to generate electricity to supply power grids. It also provides digestate (solid or liquid substances) as by-products that can be used as fertilizers or even to create bio-based construction materials. Biogas production has grown in certain regions and depends largely on enabling policies, with the United States, Europe and China constituting 90 percent of global biogas production
Gasification is a thermal waste-to-energy method that uses waste as a feedstock and converts it into syngas, which can be used for fertilization and transportation. A main benefit of gasification is that plastics can be used without emissions of harmful pollutants. Pyrolysis, the high-temperature treatment of an organic material in the absence of oxygen, is the most common technology employed to produce biochar, also occurring early in the combustion and gasification processes
Micro-hydropower: a convenient option at household level
Hydroelectric power is indeed one of the oldest renewable energy technologies, having been used since the era of the ancient Greeks to grind grain
Although often seasonal, micro-hydropower can supply energy 24/7 while also serving irrigation needs and connecting communities to the grid, even allowing for the sale of excess power
Innovation examples
Luz en Casa (“Light at home”) Ngäbe-Buglé Programme, Panamá
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Acciona.org Panamá, one of the three winners of the ILO Just Energy Transition Innovation challenge, is bringing affordable energy access to isolated rural indigenous Panamanian households through its Luz en Casa Ngäbe-Buglé programme, part of the global acciona.org’s rural electrification initiative “Luz en Casa” (Light at home). Up to now, the organization, with the support of its partners, has improved the off-grid situation of about 4,000 households in Ngäbe-Buglé, one of Panama’s least developed and least electrified areas, through the provision of basic electricity via 3G-SHSs. Introducing third-generation compact and efficient plug-and-play systems, which incorporate photovoltaic solar panels, high-efficiency LED lamps, lithium batteries and long lifespans of minimum 20 years, more than 22,000 beneficiaries in 170 communities have been provided with electricity. Local small businesses also host “Light at Home Centers” and training to support installation and maintenance of the systems while generating income for their efforts. Now the project can provide up to 11 million h/year available lighting, 3.6 million h/year for additional activities at home, EUR 120,000 per year in energy expenditure savings and 1,700 metric tonnes of CO2 emissions avoided annually
Clean Cooking Alliance (CCA) bolsters clean cookstove expansion in Nepal
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In Madhesh province, almost 70 percent of households cook with wood and dried manure in biomass stoves or open fires, which has contributed to a trend of early mortality in the country. Women and children also devote significant time to collecting wood. The Government of Nepal has committed to achieving universal access to clean cooking by 2030, including the adoption of electric cooking by 25 percent of households. The Government is working with the CCA on an innovative project aimed at selling affordable electric stoves to 1,000 households in Madhesh. In Nepal, nearly all electricity is generated from hydropower, and therefore electric cooking has potential to further accelerate the renewable energy transition. However, the largest obstacle for many households is the cost for a high-quality electric cookstove, which has made the uptake of electric cooking limited. The technology employed in the newly developed stoves embeds data capabilities to monitor stove use and helps project developers calculate avoided emissions and sell carbon credits, significantly reducing the price. The demonstration project revealed that most homes also require some electrical improvements, underscoring the need for community-scale infrastructure. This has paved the way for the next government initiative
Technology solutions
Proven
Solar home system: solar inverter
Sun King
The PowerHub 3300 offers reliable power for households and businesses in off- and weak-grid environments. It is wall-mounted, containing solar panels, an inverter and a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4, LFP) battery, which stores solar or grid-delivered electricity. The hybrid inverter powers appliances directly while charging its battery. The battery reserves can provide power during low sunlight, nighttime, power outages and periods of high demand when grid electricity is often more expensive.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Kenya
Availability: Africa and Asia
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Solar home system: compact home battery
Tesla
Powerwall is not a standalone wall, but a compact home battery that stores energy generated by solar or from the grid. Because of its size, it can be mounted in many locations, including the wall, floor, or even outside. When the solar system generates more energy than needed, it can be stored for later use. The Powerwall can recharge from the grid when utility prices are low. The system can power homes, including heating and cooling, and large appliances. It optimizes the stored energy by having access to usage history, utility price projections and weather forecasts. In some cases, homeowners can sell their excess energy to the grid.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: United States
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Solar appliance: high-autonomy solar lamps
LAGAZEL
Lagazel Kalo lamps provide lighting to those without an electrical grid, especially in SSA. The Kalo 3000 has steel housing, making it weather-resistant. It provides up to 38 hours of light from one day of charging and contains a universal serial bus (USB) slot to enable the recharging of mobile phones. It uses an LFP battery for extended life and polycrystalline solar panels.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: France
Availability: Africa
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Solar appliance: pico PV fan
d.light
The d.light solar fan SF21 contains a long-lasting rechargeable battery, enabling it to last for up to eight hours at the fastest setting. The in-built LED light provides hours of light, eliminating the need for a separate light for other activities. It can illuminate up to four rooms. It has a built-in timer to conserve battery and maximize efficiency, provides six speed settings, and has AC/DC charging capabilities.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Low
Country of origin: United States
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Solar appliance: solar refrigerator kit
Amped Innovation
The EasyFreeze is a high-performance solar-powered 100 liter refrigerator or freezer for households in areas with no grid power or limited access to AC grid power. It uses R600a refrigerant, which is at least 38 percent more energy-efficient than the R134a refrigerant, an HFC with much higher GWP. It has a 225 W compressor and 75 m closed cell polyurethane insulation and can maintain cold storage during power outages or times of low sun exposure. It uses an LFP battery and high-quality compressor. The system will refrigerate to 8°C in less than 20 minutes, freeze in under an hour, and remain cold for up to 40 hours during blackouts. There is an associated mobile app and optional pay-as-you-go keypads, wheels, and AC wall adapters.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Kenya
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Clean cooking system: ECOA electric pressure cooker and induction cooker
Burn
Electric pressure cookers use steam and heat inside a sealed chamber and are energy efficient because they require less liquid than traditional cooking methods and as the pressure makes water boil at lower temperatures. The insulation keeps energy from being lost during cooking. The ECOA electric pressure cooker reduces cooking time by 50 percent, provides localized custom presets to enable consistent cooking results, comes in a large 8 liter pot for family cooking, and features automatic temperature, pressure regulation and lid detection for safety purposes. The electric induction cooker is 85 percent energy-efficient (compared to 73 percent efficiency for LPG cooking and 31 percent efficiency for traditional cookstoves), contains customized presets as well as adjustable timer and eight levels of power for temperature control, and features child lock, pot detection, error detection and anti-slip technology.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Kenya
Availability: Africa, China, United States
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Clean cooking system: solar oven
GoSun
GoSun Fusion™ hybrid solar oven is “the world’s first solar oven that can also cook without sun.” A solar and electric oven runs on sunshine or 12 V from an automobile, boat, recreational vehicle, or powerbank. It can provide four to six meals per load using a 3.2 liter cook tray, cooks at a maximum temperature of 288°C, has a maximum power output of 200–225 W in the full sun, and yet functions under cloud cover and at nighttime. The Fusion’s hybrid solar and electric technology uses GoSun’s advanced thermal performance to enable cooking anywhere and keeps food hot for up to 12 hours with its vacuum tube, which acts as a thermos. GoSun also offers Solar Kitchen and Solar Kitchen Pro, which are equipped for all off-grid needs for cooking, refrigeration, water purification, coffee brewing, sink or shower, and a GoSun Table 60 to charge devices.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Low
Country of origin: United States
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Hydropower: micro-hydroelectric systems to 100 kW
Canyon
Canyon micro-hydroelectric systems are small hydro systems for residential projects that range from 4 kW to 25 MW. Complete hydro systems are available (as well as individual parts) that include a water turbine, housing, generator, drive system, electronic governor and assembly frame. The water turbines, Pelton wheels (an impulse turbine), are efficient single units that have been designed to maximize hydraulic energy transfer to the turbine shaft.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: United States
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Waste to energy: backyard systems/anaerobic digesters
HomeBiogas
The HomeBiogas system is a biodigester that transforms kitchen waste into clean cooking gas and liquid biofertilizer. It helps users manage up to 8 liters of kitchen waste every day and obtain up to four hours of cooking gas. Smaller systems are available that are tailored to backyards that manage up to 4 liters and yield two hours of cooking gas, as well as 8 liters of liquid fertilizer for the garden. The Homebiogas 6 works for small-scale farms and manages up to 12 liters of daily kitchen waste or 43 liters of animal manure, provides six hours of cooking gas, and 24 liters of liquid bio-fertilizer or up to 120 liters mixed with water-diluted animal manure. The BioToilet is a solution intended for suburban homeowners and those living off-grid whereby the anaerobic digester converts the waste into cooking gas.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Israel
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Waste to energy: biochar kiln
Earthly Biochar
Earthly Biochar’s clean burning biochar kiln was designed for gardeners. It is used to make biochar in a safe and sustainable fashion at home using smokeless technology. The biochar kiln enables domestic gardeners to create soil amendments in one hour using a process that creates carbon neutral heat. The kiln heats up to temperatures of 600–800°C. The wood smoke produced is funneled to a combustion zone and mixed with oxygen to produce heat, CO2 and water vapor, delivering biochar that can be added to soil as a natural plant fertilizer. The kiln has a 25 liter chamber that can produce 7–10 liters of biochar from every burn. It is tripod mounted, has a modular design, and is equipped with a grill plate to allow heat energy to be used for cooking.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Low
Country of origin: United Kingdom
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Waste to energy: biomass boiler
Zhongzhen Lvtan (Henan) Energy Group Co., Ltd.
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The company’s biomass fuel boilers can be used in rural areas to solve winter heating problems. Biomass fuel boiler heating is a low-carbon, clean, environmentally friendly and economical renewable energy heating method that can replace coal-fired boilers for heating and reduce air pollution. Biomass fuel boilers use agricultural and forestry biomass raw materials (such as crop straw and forestry residues) that are physically compressed into rod-shaped, block-shaped or pellet-shaped fuels. The company’s biomass boilers have 68 patented technologies. The boilers feature fully intelligent control, simple operation, and emissions that meet environmental requirements in China.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: China
Availability: China
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Frontier
Solar home system: plug-and-play battery with mini-grid
PowerBlox
The PBX-200 system is a plug-and-play technology comprised of intelligent energy cubes with an integrated LFP battery, where each cube provides 200 W AC current with in-built converter and control systems, providing versatility in terms of input and output energy for households or small business with electricity. Its modularity means it therefore can be used as a building block for use when electricity demand increases; homeowners can start with one unit and expand as needed with additional units.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Switzerland
Availability: Africa, Asia, Middle East, Switzerland
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Solar home system: solar tree (aesthetically attractive alternative to solar panels)
SolarBotanic
The SolarBotanic™ Tree is an aesthetically pleasing solar panel alternative that can generate energy for a small home or charge an electric vehicle (EV) while mimicking natural trees. Excess energy can be sold back to the grid. SolarBotanic trees can incorporate battery storage to deliver power at night or in cloudy conditions. Multiple trees can be used to create a “forest” or a micro-grid to power a whole neighborhood. A new design, the fully integrated SolarBotanic Tree version v2 with energy management system, battery storage and rapid EV-charging system will be available commercially in late 2024.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: United Kingdom
Availability: United Kingdom, Europe
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Solar home system: AI-powered solar panel washing machine
Solarwashing
Solarwashing has developed a fully automated solar panel washing machine that increases energy output by up to 35 percent. It is the first hands-free fully automated fixed washing robot that uses AI to predict when and where to wash in order to extend the lifetimes of solar panels and maximize their energy output. The patent-pending technology therefore saves energy, water and CO2 emissions.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: High
Country of origin: Netherlands
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Solar appliance: solar water heater
Sunpad
Sunpad is a solar water heater that integrates the heat carrier tank into the insulation to create an extremely compact system. Due to the small quantity of components, the system requires less maintenance than others over its lifetime. The storage tank contains 150 liters of water. The special solar coating on its surface heats a transfer fluid in the tank when it’s exposed to sunlight and this heated fluid is pumped into a heat exchanger located in the water tank, which heats the water. Depending on the conditions and temperature of the system, it can provide up to 380 liters of water at 40°C. The tank is wrapped in 50 mm thick insulation composed of high-quality extended polypropylene foam, which also holds the UV-resistant cover insulation and the solar safety glass.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Austria
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Solar appliance: hydropanel for drinking water
SOURCE
SOURCE® Hydropanels™ technology incorporates multiple patented inventions. It is an off-grid solution that can be powered with solar energy. It contains fans that draw in ambient air and force it through a water-absorbing material, trapping water vapor and condensing it into liquid water. This water is then transferred to a pressurized tank in the home, where it is mineralized for taste, and then becomes clean drinkable water which can be distributed from the tap or refrigerator. The system operates in a wide range of conditions, even in low sunlight and humidity, and can produce 90–150 liters of water per day.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: United States
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Energy storage system: SOLIX X1 home energy storage
Anker
The SOLIX X1 is equipped with a power density of 8.7 W/ft3, packaged into an all-in-one design including battery and power modules. Each battery pack contains an energy optimizer for independent charging and discharging. The application monitors power generation and consumption in real time. The NEM 3.0 mode in the application enables charging of the X1 with cheaper electricity prices during daytime and selling back electricity during peak price periods. The X1 has seven energy modes and four off-grid features to deal with pre-outage, and for power during short outages, blackouts and extended outages. It also provides 100 percent power in temperatures ranging from –20°C to 55°C. Thermal boosting starts at 0°C and keeps the battery operating at 20°C, while it can also operate in extremely hot temperatures due to its modular design and cooling system.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: United States
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Clean cooking system: hybrid cookstove using IoT
Powerstove
Powerstove is a smokeless clean cookstove that burns 70 percent less biomass and cooks five times faster than a traditional stove. Using only pellets, Powerstove produces 50 W of electricity, stores excess power in a lithium-ion battery, and is able to charge phones, lights, and so on. Using a precision airflow system alongside the built-in battery and four-speed fan, the fan regulator enables users to control the temperature while cooking. The stove includes IoT technology, which enables users to track and control stove performance, manage energy consumption and receive notifications and updates.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Nigeria
Availability: Africa
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Horizon
Clean cooking system: mobile, solar-powered bakery
SOLARBAKERY
SOLARBAKERY is a mobile and energy self-sufficient container bakery which started as a bakery chain in Senegal. The vision is to create a global network of sustainable bakers that bring jobs to the Global South. The first pilot project is in Democratic Republic of Congo, where more SOLARBAKERYS are slated to be constructed. They are plug-and-play, with an integrated mill for the processing of raw materials. Utilizing solar panels and batteries, the bakeries can bake up to 3,000 loaves per day and project an ROI pay-off in the fourth year of operations.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Germany
Availability: Africa
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Solar appliance: saline water lantern
National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT)
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A team of scientists at the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) in India have developed the Renewable Ocean System for Harnessing Novel Illumination (ROSHNI) seawater lantern. The lantern uses the process of ionization to produce electrical energy when saltwater electrolytes react with magnesium inside the device. The lantern is useful for fishing communities and island populations, and in cases of emergency or grid disruptions. It can operate for up to 12 continuous hours for every seawater replacement and the electrodes have a lifetime of 500 hours of lantern usage. Tap water can be used with table salt in cases where sea water is unavailable. Alternative lanterns offer mobile charging.
Contracting type: For licensing
Technology level: High
Country of origin: India
Availability: N/A
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Energy storage system: EV battery as electricity storage for households
E.On Bi-ClEVer project
Bidirectional charging technology makes it possible for electricity to be fed back into the grid. As part of the Bi-ClEVer project, E.On and its partners are conducting a pilot project to determine how an EV battery in combination with a PV system can be used as an electricity storage system in households. Preliminary results show that the degree of independence from the electricity grid can more than double through bidirectional charging. Using a PV system and EV with a 42 kWh battery as intermediate storage, 51 percent self-sufficiency on average is feasible. To achieve this, the EV charging times are monitored to ensure the battery is charged as much as possible with self-generated solar power. With an additional stationary battery, this can be increased to up to 59 percent. The charging and discharging processes will be automated using a home energy management system. Continuous improvements to the algorithm are planned that account for weather forecasts and individual usage and mobility behavior of residents.
Contracting type: Under development
Technology level: High
Country of origin: Germany
Availability: N/A
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Electrification: Automatic and bidirectional home EV charging stations
Volterio
Volterio’s home charging robot consists of a ground unit on the parking floor and an underbody vehicle unit. The units sense each other using a low frequency positioning system and guides the driver into position. Once the vehicle is parked, charging automatically begins and delivers 22 kW AC or up to 50 kW DC. The automated conductive charging system is bidirectional, allowing users to store excess energy, and can also employ manual or automatic scheduling considering fluctuations in electricity costs or a scheduled departure time. The charging process can be controlled and monitored via an app, and the underbody vehicle unit is retrofittable onto almost any electric vehicle. The system is currently in development and is piloted with major OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers.
Contracting type: Under development
Technology level: High
Country of origin: Austria
Availability: N/A
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Climate-resilient solutions for rural communities
Decarbonization is key to reducing carbon emissions and meeting global UN Paris climate goals. Major drivers of decarbonization include scaling up renewable energy deployment and energy efficiency innovations. As underscored in the rural households section above, rural communities also need access to efficient and reliable energy. The UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7 endeavors to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all while acknowledging energy’s key role in improving overall quality of life
Thus, the decarbonization of the energy system can help seize synergies between achieving sustainable rural electrification for communities and transitioning away from fossil fuels. Even better, these options provide both climate mitigation and adaptation benefits to rural communities.
Technological developments and trends
As discussed in the rural households section, electrification rates in rural areas lag behind urban areas for a variety of reasons, including lower population densities, difficult terrain and long distances, grid extension obstacles, low electricity demand, lack of infrastructure, proclivity to natural disasters, and even weak policies and governance. Due to low demand, costs incurred and up-front expenditures to extend grid access to remote communities, it is often less expensive to expand access to rural communities using mini-grids than to extend the grid
An important component of further increasing uptake in remote communities is ensuring that residents are made aware of technologies and how they can benefit from using them
Remote communities include not only remote rural populations with sparse population density, but also small islands (65 million people living in 57 small island states), mountain communities (12 percent of the global population, or 720 million people), indigenous populations (roughly 6 percent of the world’s population, or 476 million people in 90 countries) and displaced populations, which are constantly growing, but estimated to be 94.7 million
The UN’s High-Level Dialogue on Energy recommended that “the last mile of energy access must become the first mile to be tackled”
Decentralized solutions have become increasingly common in the form of standalone and mini- and micro-grids that are powered by solar, wind and hydropower. Communities have been offered an increasing number of options to benefit from these renewable energy sources. In SSA, where roughly 60 percent of Africans reside in rural communities, already approximately 5 percent of these people have access to clean electricity through the 11 million mini-grid connections which are active
Community-centric models for electrification have been a boon, as they ensure ownership and enable communities to co-design projects, set tariffs and be actively involved in managing them and overseeing operations and maintenance. Policies that promote community engagement are vital to ensuring alignment between local community needs and decentralized renewables, and support community engagement in creating sustainable energy pathways
Box 3.1 describes a trend that emerged in the early 2000s, energy kiosks.
An earlier community solution to meet rural electrification needs involved energy kiosks, which gained ground between 2005 and 2014. Generally, the kiosks produced electricity using a solar panel and sold it through charging devices. Kiosks provided community services, such as simple mobile phone and lantern charging and on-demand refrigeration
An important component of further increasing uptake of renewable energy and energy efficiency solutions in remote communities is ensuring that residents are made aware of technologies and how they can benefit from using them. This includes the positive impacts they can have on livelihoods and employment opportunities, resilience to the impacts of climate change, energy independence, and health and well-being. A broader and more inclusive approach to involving communities in technology adoption and development, that considers traditional knowledge and includes rural and indigenous communities in decision-making processes, relies on the CARE principles for indigenous data governance. CARE stands for “Collective Benefit,” “Authority to Control,” “Responsibility” and “Ethics.” These can guide the co-development of technological solutions amidst increased adoption of AI technologies and the emergence of big data and open data as integral to research and innovation
Mini-grids and micro-grids: the backbone of rural community electrification
Mini- and micro-grids have recently benefited from more advanced technologies, rendering them more resilient and less expensive
Micro-grids are local decentralized energy grids that operate independently or in concert with a traditional grid. They are self-sufficient and offer communities energy security and independence. Micro-grids integrate renewable energy alongside renewable energy storage technology and demand response and can reduce costs by optimizing energy resources. They are not novel but have been gaining traction in recent years among communities desiring to integrate decentralized energy resources (DER). Diesel generators have been used in micro-grids in the past, but moving away from their use is essential for climate change mitigation. The increased integration of renewable energy contributes to halting the use of fossil fuels and meeting global climate change mitigation goals. Fortunately, the facilitation of DER with renewables also helps expand energy access, increasing resilience for communities in need and vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
New smart technologies for improved efficient micro-grids
As various new technologies, including micro-grid controllers, software and energy storage systems have advanced and proliferated, more communities are choosing to build micro-grids. Due to their isolation and vulnerability, increasing the mix of renewables can also introduce grid stability issues. Innovative technologies are combating this and other challenges.
Energy storage systems. Storage is essential, as the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources causes disruptions in power supply. Various advanced energy storage technologies are under development and gaining traction, such as flywheel energy storage systems, flow batteries, fuel cell technologies and gravity storage.
Flywheel battery energy systems are mechanical energy systems that can be paired with wind energy. A flywheel stores energy for the shorter term by using a rotating mass in the form of kinetic energy
Flow batteries are electrochemical rechargeable batteries in which energy in the form of two electrolytes stored in large tanks is pumped through a system separated by an ion exchange membrane. Flow batteries have a quick response time, versatility and a longer lifetime. They contain environmentally friendly materials, such as vanadium, that are not flammable, rendering them safer
Fuel cell technologies for micro-grids. Fuel cells are now considered efficient, safe and reliable, functioning either within micro-grids or standalone. Micro-grids paired with fuel cells provide predictable energy 24/7 to complement renewable power. They do not require a large land area, and are small and quiet, unlike diesel generators. Fuel cells convert chemical energy from hydrogen into electrical power, heat and water using an electrochemical process. They can operate continuously as long as hydrogen is supplied, which can be produced by electrolyzers and stored over time in compressed, liquated or metal hydride form and then consumed by the fuel cell
Gravity storage. Newer technologies such as gravity storage can repurpose former mining areas, which could be advantageous to rural mining communities already equipped with mining infrastructure and technology. Gravity storage uses potential energy of heavy masses elevated to certain heights to store energy. Gravity storage can be an efficient and cost-effective solution to support renewable energy sources. Pumped storage hydropower can also be used in hillier terrain, using a configuration of two water reservoirs at different elevations that generates power as the water moves down from one reservoir to the other through turbines. The system uses renewable power when available to pump water to the upper reservoir, and then releases it when needed, serving as a large battery.
AI-powered optimization. As mentioned, balancing energy demand and supply when using distributed energy sources can lead to power outages and inefficiencies. AI-powered solutions using machine learning and other algorithms help to optimize energy use while supporting the integration of additional renewable energy sources.
Blockchain technologies. Blockchain provides a transparent method to manage energy distribution and payments and may include smart contracts that automatically carry out transactions when predefined conditions are met. It has become more commonly used for peer-to-peer energy trading in micro-grids, and ensures security while allowing participants to control their system without a centralized regulatory authority, thus avoiding costs
Virtual power plants. A virtual power plant (VPP) is a network of small-scale distributed energy resources such as rooftop solar panels, energy storage systems, EV chargers and water heaters, that are aggregated and connected with grid operations to provide similar services as traditional power plants
Micro-grid-as-a-service. Numerous micro-grid services are easing high up-front installation and maintenance costs, which have deterred many communities from their adoption. Using micro-grid-as-a-service, users pay only for the energy used, which provides enhanced access in remote areas . IoT sensors and analytics used by micro-grids help monitor energy use and streamline management to reduce energy waste
Swarm electrification: a novel concept gaining traction
The concept of swarm electrification entails “swarm grids” that are similar to micro-grids, with the distinction that they are assembled in an ad hoc (rather than planned) fashion and connect equipment that is available to grow organically as more resources become available. The concept is fairly new, but has been gaining traction as a means to providing last-mile electrification
Small-scale hydropower a potential boon with co-benefits for communities
Small-scale hydropower systems, as discussed in the rural households section above, offer multiple benefits for communities including irrigation services and even connection with the central grid. Mini-grids are increasingly tapping into multiple renewable energy sources, and small hydropower can play a role and exploit an abundant natural fuel source, long equipment lifespans and minimal maintenance needs.
Community-based hydro mini-grids may also provide a nature-based solution, depending on the hydropower solution, that incentivizes the conservation and restoration of watersheds
Solar pumps, drinking water and waste-to-energy innovations benefit rural communities
Solar-powered water-pumping systems are affordable and reliable solutions for rural communities. Water purification services combined with these pumping systems provide clean drinking water for communities, while also providing revenue collection and management services. Clean cookstoves provide a multitude of environmental, energy-saving and social benefits. Solutions devised for larger institutional cooking settings found in communities, such as schools, are also improving energy access, energy savings, and health and air quality issues.
Waste-to-energy technologies provide a critical solution to transforming organic waste on-site. These can service larger loads of waste to create energy on-site and provide innovative solutions such as using forest biomass residue from thinning and logging operations to produce electricity and heat. Several home solutions are featured in the rural households section.
Solar appliances and rural e-mobility innovations ease burdens on rural women
Rural women are involved in a large share of agricultural work and take charge of managing households as well, spending significant time and physical effort walking long distances to obtain water for cooking, cleaning and washing. Electric mobility has typically been focused on urban areas and on four-wheel models, while the potential of electric two- and three-wheelers for rural areas has not been fully exploited. Some technologies for rural communities are addressing this problem via solar tricycles and carts.
Additionally, some industries, such as the silk industry, are dominated by women who have employed either traditional thigh-reeling techniques that can inflict physical injury, or diesel-powered spinning machines. Solar-powered machinery has been rare in rural areas like India. Solar-powered spinning machines, which are now on the rise, decrease emissions and also help to connect the silk industry with others in the value chain, such as solar-powered sewing machines
In the end, the influx of solar-powered machinery and appliances into rural communities provides a multitude of climate benefits for both mitigation and adaptation. The expansion of renewable appliances not only lessens dependence on fossil fuels, a win for climate mitigation, but also increases the energy resilience of communities, rendering them less vulnerable to energy access disruptions, and boosts overall economic resilience through livelihood diversification.
Innovation examples
US Department of Energy Alaskan Tribal Energy Sovereignty
Eight remote Alaskan tribal communities that are inaccessible by road currently rely upon diesel for 100 percent of their electricity production. In collaboration with the Alaska Village Electric Cooperative, the US Department of Energy Alaskan Tribal Energy Sovereignty project aims to deploy high-penetration solar PV and battery storage systems in existing micro-grids. The project will renovate grid infrastructure while providing job training to tribal communities, and support the development of Alaska’s largest tribally owned and operated independent power producer. Lowering diesel consumption by 40 percent will decrease energy costs, improve air quality and reduce GHG emissions by 1,550 tonnes over its 25-year lifetime. The tribal ownership model is slated to create net income of USD 150,000 per year to be shared across tribal governments and used to develop further renewable energy projects. Ultimately, the project will advance the eight communities’ micro-grid reliability, resilience and energy security
UN World Food Programme (WFP) Innovation Accelerator Electric Pressure Cookers for Schools (EPC4S), Lesotho and Kenya
Many schools in Lesotho and Kenya rely on biomass-based cooking, which can cause health issues and increase firewood demand, exacerbating deforestation. This WFP project aims to address these problems while also saving on community cooking costs. It provides electric pressure cookers (EPCs) to replace biomass-based cookers in school canteens. These stoves are cheaper than other solutions, having been shown in Kenya to incur 10 times lower operating costs than cooking with charcoal. The WFP team tested EPCs in an initial school pilot called the “WFP Sprint Programme” to determine the feasibility and viability. Results were positive on energy savings, but also on cost reduction, faster cooking times, safer practices with less food contamination, and reduced food waste due to the need for measuring specific amounts to load the pots. Following the pilot, EPCs were planned for implementation in 20 schools in Lesotho and Kenya. Once these have been established, the team plans to scale up the project to 10 WFP Country Offices across 1,200 schools, providing clean cooking to 480,000 children
Carbon neutral Samsø Island, Denmark
In 1998, the 3,700 residents of the 114 km2 Danish island of Samsø started developing and executing a plan to make the island carbon neutral. Since 2012, energy has been supplied entirely by wind and solar, except for the transport sector and roughly 30 percent of residential heating outside the district central heating system. Following significant communal planning and cooperation among the local municipality, citizen cooperatives and the private sector, several windmills were constructed, along with an offshore windmill park and district heating based on biomass (mainly locally produced straw). Samsø now generates more power than it consumes, and the surplus electricity is sold to the national utility company NRGi on the mainland to offset the remaining fossil fuel use. Several of the 2,000 households on the island now have heat pumps using renewably produced electricity from the grid. The transport sector is still partially reliant on fossil fuels; however, feasible solutions are being explored, such as a transition to the use of bioethanol. Samsø´s present goal is to entirely phase out fossil fuel by 2030. The island’s successful transition to green energy is attracting visitors and new residents, too, as it has gained considerable attention in recent years
Technologies
Proven
Solar kiosk: E-HUBBs
Solarkiosk
Solarkiosk’s solar power integrated infrastructure solutions have been deployed in 15 countries to reach 5 million people via 250 E-HUBBS. The hubs combine solar products with turnkey solutions to create sustainable business in off-grid markets, functioning as trading platforms, system integrators and service providers. The kiosks provide entirely renewable energy-based tools to conduct operations in remote locations, including for health-care support, drinking water access, humanitarian interventions, telecommunication networks, access to safe drinking water, and education facilities.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Germany
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Energy management platform: digital platform for managing mini-grids
Engie
Engie mini-grids digital platform connects customers in remote African communities, either standalone or by combining mini-grids with modular SHSs. MySolGrid is connected using smart electricity meters to small industries and workshops, small businesses, families and individuals, and public services like schools and health-care centers. The projects use Paygee, a pay-as-you-go software suite developed by Engie, now with more than 1.6 million using its services, including a built-in technician application to resolve technical issues remotely. The service provided includes trainings in safety and appliance use, business incubation programs for entrepreneurs and a dedicated support agent assigned to each mini-grid. Mini-grids can also provide hubs to meet needs beyond electricity, such as water purification and pumping services, fish-drying facilities and ice-making devices, as well as e-mobility solutions.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: France
Availability: Africa
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Energy management platform: EcoStruxure Micro-grid Advisor cloud-based software platform
Schneider Electric
The EcoStruxure micro-grid advisor cloud-based software platform is a demand-side energy management software platform that collects real-time data from decentralized energy resources and with the help of predictive algorithms optimizes consumption, production and energy storage. The web-based interface is user-friendly and provides insights into real-time savings, earnings and carbon emissions data. It contains a storm hardening mode that uses weather forecasts to reduce downtime, as well as providing support for tariff management and battery charging with excess solar during peak periods, or discharging or idling the battery.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: France
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Energy management platform: hybrid micro-grid solution with battery energy storage system (BESS)
Micropower
Micropower Energy provides hybrid micro-grid solutions with solar integration and storage for remote areas. The BESS delivers back-up energy during outages, helping to reduce downtime. It also provides tariff optimization through reduced consumption by discharging stored energy during peak charges and recharging when cheaper to do so. Micropower is the first Brazilian company to offer energy-as-a-service. It sells energy and services to the customer, meaning that the company owns and operates the micro-grid, which eliminates operating and investment risks and responsibilities.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Brazil
Availability: Brazil
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Hydropower: turnkey hydropower systems from 50 kW to 20 MW
Gilkes
Gilkes turnkey hydropower systems are tailored to customer mini-grid requirements and range from 50 kW up to 20 MW. The systems can integrate into new or existing networks, provide capabilities to connect with national grids in the future, respond quickly to changes in load demand, have the ability to restart after a partial or complete shutdown, and generate in tandem with other generators in the same network. Turgo impulse turbines are often used in these set-ups, which are simple, reliable in silty or abrasive water, and efficient under a wide range of flows.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: United Kingdom
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Solar-powered pump: off-grid dispensing and management system
LORENTZ
The solar water pumps from LORENTZ deliver a sustainable and cost-effective water supply powered by solar energy. With features for water level measurement and remote monitoring and management, their systems can ensure reliable access to drinking water for households and communities, and meet the irrigation needs ranging from that of small subsistence farmers up to large commercial growers. The company also offers hybrid solutions, which blend energy sources such as grid and solar, guaranteeing a constant flow of water. Their trained partners provide expert installation and ongoing support, ensuring optimal performance and sustainability. For a comprehensive off-grid water solution, the pumps can be integrated with the LORENTZ smartTAP water dispensers. This enables community access to controlled, pay-per-use clean water, while promoting conservation and equitable distribution for individuals and larger communities.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Germany
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Waste-to-energy: anaerobic digesters
Waste Transformers
Waste Transformers is a modular containerized anaerobic digester placed on-site that converts organic (food) waste into energy and organic fertilizer. It can process between 500 and 3,600 kg of organic waste per day and converts it into biogas for electricity, residual heat, recovered water and organic fertilizer. It functions as a plug-and-play system with 24/7 online monitoring. Waste Transformers contributes to creating on-site circular economies within communities. The “business in a box” program empowers communities by providing local entrepreneurs with support to operate their own Waste Transformers as a business, giving their neighborhoods waste solutions.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Netherlands
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Solar-powered silk machine: silk reeling and spinning machines
Resham Sutra
The solar silk reeling and spinning machines, such as the Unnati model, are portable and provide solar-powered silk yarn reeling and twisting. They create high-quality twisted yarn that is useful for warp and weft, and for tassar, eri and muga silk yarns. The Silky Spin machine is solar-, electric- or pedal-powered, and spins silk yarn from cocoons. It is suitable for spinning eri silk and open cocoons of tassar, muga and mulberry. These machines save energy while also easing the work of rural women who have traditionally used the thigh reeling technique to make yarn out of the cocoon, which can take a physical toll.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: India
Availability: India
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Frontier
Energy management platform: Ugrid energy trade among neighbors
Powerledger
Ugrid enables participants to trade energy with each other at prices that are competitive with grid tariff rates. UGrid allocates shares of renewable energy among neighbors who are sharing energy generated using community solar PV, while they can also trade excess energy beyond the meter using the xGrid platform. xGrid uses a blockchain system to track this exchange across customers using the same utility or across different utilities. The system uses dynamic pricing, factoring in preferred buying/selling prices with supply and demand.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Switzerland
Availability: Europe, North America, Asia, Australia
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Energy management platform: platform connecting underserved areas with clean energy access, services and utilities
Bboxx
Bboxx is a data-driven platform that connects underserved rural communities with access to renewable energy technologies, clean cooking, smartphones, financial products and e-mobility, along with financing services. The platform combines Bboxx Pulse®, the integrated operating system, with an on-the-ground network supporting last-mile logistics and pay-as-you-go services. The platform matches those in need with products and technologies, supporting the provision of plug-and-play solar systems, residential solar installations, energy kiosks and related accessories, while also developing innovative energy systems and business models tailored to meet electrification needs.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Rwanda
Availability: Africa, Asia, Europe
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Energy storage system: flywheel energy storage system (FESS)
Torus
The Torus FESS uses electricity from renewables (or from the grid) to spin a heavy metal disc and motor-generator. The flywheel is encased in a vacuum chamber that minimizes air resistance and therefore energy loss, while a high-efficiency motor-generator charges the battery by converting electrical energy into kinetic energy and storing it until needed, at which point the kinetic energy is turned back into electricity. This conversion is managed by an electronics system. FESS offers benefits over chemical batteries, including up to three times longer lifespan, faster charging and discharging rates, and better performance in extreme weather conditions.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: United States
Availability: United States
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Energy storage system: vanadium flow batteries for off-grid and micro-grid
Invinity
Flow batteries store and convert chemical energy into electrical energy through the circulation of liquid electrolytes in external tanks that flow through an electrochemical cell. The VS3 battery uses vanadium redox flow technology, which stores energy in a liquid electrolyte that never degrades, is non-flammable, and has a safe chemistry that renders it lower risk than other battery storage technologies. The energy storage systems require little maintenance and work in extreme environments where conventional batteries encounter challenges.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: High
Country of origin: United Kingdom
Availability: United States, Europe, Australia
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Energy storage system: fuel cell for micro-grid/off-grid
Intelligent Energy
The IE-POWER 4 stationary fuel cell can be used for micro-grids and generates electricity through an electrochemical reaction where the by-products are water and heat. Fuel cells for off-grid applications are about 30 to 40 percent energy efficient, compared to 25 percent with internal combustion engines, when considering the hydrogen lifecycle. The modular unit can be integrated into existing systems and can operate in a wide range of temperatures from –10°C to +40°C, at altitudes of 0-4000 m, and in 10 percent to 90 percent humidity. It has low maintenance and operational costs, operates quietly, and the stored excess energy in the form of hydrogen won’t degrade over time as with other battery types.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: High
Country of origin: United Kingdom, United States, Japan
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Hydropower: containerized small hydropower
Hydrobox
Hydrobox uses small run-of-river hydropower plants that generate maximum power output while inflicting minimal environmental impact because there is no need for dams. The Hydrobox is standardized, pre-built and containerized, uses smart sensors for monitoring and forecasting, and can be co-financed where needed using an energy-as-a service model. Hydrobox is also offered as a serviced product, wherein the customer owns and finances the power station.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Kenya
Availability: Africa
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Solar-powered vehicle: renewable-powered electric tricycles for rural off-road environments
Mobility for Africa
The Hamba, an electric tricycle, provides a way for women, children and families to travel longer distances to services and for water collection, and contributes to local economies. The Hamba is powered using community-based off-grid energy supply, transports goods or people up to 400 kg, is designed for women with no straddling needed, uses an LFP battery pack, can travel off-road with 12-inch (30 cm) wheels and good suspension, and has a range of 100 km on a single charge.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Zimbabwe
Availability: Mauritius, Zimbabwe, Zambia
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Horizon
Energy storage system: gravity energy storage system
Gravitricity
GraviStore is capitalizing on old mineshafts in former mining areas to store renewable energy, using existing infrastructure in communities that were once dependent on mines. Gravity is free, accessible and undeterred by environmental and other complications inherent to hydrogen or even lithium-ion batteries. The GraviStore underground gravity energy storage technology uses the force of gravity to thousands of tonnes of mass to store electricity. It supports increased energy access in rural and off-grid areas, as storage can be built into mini-grids to reduce infrastructure costs with small physical footprints and no harmful chemicals, no lifecycle limit or degradation, levelized costs below lithium-ion batteries, fast response time (zero to full power in one second), and a modular and flexible system. The technology will be launched officially by Gravitricity with its first full-scale system in 2024.
Contracting type: N/A
Technology level: High
Country of origin: United Kingdom
Availability: N/A
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Data transmission: light-based wireless communication technology
LIFI-LED
LIFI-LED provides data transmission services for remote areas using light. LiFi is a wireless communication technology that uses light to transmit data using LED bulbs as transmitters; they modulate their brightness similar to optical Morse code and encode binary data into light signals. Remote populations can be connected to the internet using a data traffic extender that can transmit at speeds of up to 200 mbps over a 300 m range through already extant electrical wiring, then transmitting via WiFi. LiFi is thirty times faster than WiFi and more economical. The added value is that LiFi can contribute to the supply of solar electricity in rural areas and promote energy savings using LEDs.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: High
Country of origin: Cote d’Ivoire
Availability: Africa
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Energy access: off-grid mobile infrastructure to access energy
S Mile Solutions (Pty) Ltd
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S Mile Solutions (Pty) Ltd, a spin-off from Fraunhofer IST and Fraunhofer ISE, aims to revolutionize access to energy in rural areas. Based in South Africa, this startup offers smart, small-scale off-grid infrastructure mounted on commercially available pick-up trucks. This setup allows companies and institutions to reach remote communities with essential services and products. S Mile Solutions focuses on enhancing living conditions in rural SSA by providing clean water and electricity including their storage, and telecommunications for the establishment of primary health care with telemedicine and data management. The company plans to expand into sectors such as wildlife conservation, agriculture, mining, tourism, disaster relief and research.
Contracting type: For collaboration
Technology level: High
Country of origin: South Africa
Availability: Sub Saharan region
Contact: WIPO Green Database
Energy generation: Airborne wind energy
Kitepower
Kitepower is developing a kite-powered Battery Energy Storage System (k-BESS) at the Delft University of Technology. Their two systems, the Hawk and Falcon, are estimated to have rated power outputs of 30 and 100 kWs respectively. The system operates on a pumping cycle where electricity is generated as the kite is reeled out and flown in a cross-wind figure-of-eight pattern. The tether by which it connects to the ground is coupled to a generator converting mechanical force into electricity, and subsequently charging it to a 400 kW battery. When the tether reaches its maximum, the kite is reeled in, consuming part of the generated electricity. The technology is undergoing further testing and development as part of an EU-funded project in Ireland.
Contracting type: Under development
Technology level: High
Country of origin: Netherlands
Availability: Netherlands
Contact: WIPO Green Database
Energy storage: electron-conducting carbon concrete (EC3) supercapacitor
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Engineers at the MIT Concrete Sustainability Hub (CSHub) and the MIT Electron Conducting Carbon-Cement-Based Materials Hub (ec3 hub) are developing an energy storage technology in the form of a multifunctional concrete made from cement and hydrophobic nanocarbon black, a black powder used as ink for the Dead Sea Scrolls 2,000 years ago. Carbon black is an electrical conductor. When combined with cement and water in a specific fashion, it develops a branching network of carbon wires as the cement sets. This allows the material to function as a supercapacitor, a device designed to store electric charge. This electron-conducting carbon concrete (EC3) stores energy and but provides an added use for carbon black produced as an industrial byproduct, such as in hydrogen production. EC3 technology may ultimately be used to build structures that can store and supply energy on demand. These could enable the creation of energy autonomous shelters that reduce dependence on external power sources while decreasing energy losses related to transmission and distribution.
Contracting type: Under development
Technology level: High
Country of origin: United States
Availability: N/A
Contact: WIPO Green Database
Green energy solutions for agriculture on-farm
Increasing pressure on the global food production system presents a threat to achieving climate change mitigation goals as outlined in the 2015 UN Paris Agreement. Deploying sustainable methods and technologies for agricultural production is and will continue to be essential, as the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) projects that agricultural production will need to increase 60 percent globally by 2050 to feed a global population of 9.3 billion
FAO projects that agricultural production will need to increase 60 percent globally by 2050 to feed a global population of 9.3 billion
Technological developments and trends
Agriculture is unique, in that it can both contribute to and mitigate climate change. Emissions from energy use in agriculture are only about 20 percent of the total in CO2eq generated from crop and livestock production
Agriculture can also be employed as a mitigation approach, whereby agricultural and forested lands can serve as natural sinks or reservoirs, with soil organic matter and biomass sequestering carbon. Importantly, decarbonizing energy systems used in agricultural production can provide adaptation opportunities for populations reliant upon fossil fuel use, which can be expensive, unreliable and unsustainable.
Decarbonization in food production contributes to climate change mitigation
In food production, energy is consumed to operate machinery, tractors and irrigation infrastructure, for protected cropping like greenhouses, sowing and tillage, during aquaculture and fishing operations, and to produce fertilizer and feed
Since the millennium, energy consumption has risen in developing regions as fossil fuels have enabled increased fertilizer production, farm mechanization and transportation. The use of machinery has greatly expanded to boost productivity, while fertilizers and chemicals have become ubiquitous to enhance short-term crop yields
Climate mitigation in agriculture production will necessitate decarbonization and energy efficiency technologies across all parts of the agrifood value chain. Research has indicated that decarbonization of the energy sector by 2050 would decrease global warming from food consumption by roughly 17 percent by 2100, or an additional 0.15°C. If complemented by improved production practices, transition to healthy diets and reduced food waste, it could decrease warming by more than 55 percent
Farmers can reduce fertilizer input through precision agriculture, which saves indirect energy (used for inputs to production processes), reduces GHG emissions, lessens fossil fuel use in some cases, and avoids nitrate discharge
Energy-efficient livestock and greenhouses
Livestock farming involves rearing animals such as cattle, poultry, pigs and sheep that are kept outside in pastures or in barns. Bolstered by advances in automation and digital technology, the global livestock farming market is projected to grow significantly and reach USD 2,446 million by 2028 globally
Ventilation systems for livestock that circulate air within barns can be quite energy-intensive. Technologies for livestock ventilation systems include sensors that can control the system automatically and can be enhanced using variable speed drives (VSDs) that reduce energy loss by matching motor speed to the required load and work alongside sensors to monitor conditions
High-efficiency fans can also be used. High-volume low-speed (HVLS) fans exploit the evaporative cooling effect, whereby their large diameter creates a large column of air flowing down to the floor and outward in all directions, which thereby produces a horizontal air circulation in large spaces. This quickly evaporates moisture, distributes air evenly, and can move warm rising air down into occupied areas. HVLS fans are also very quiet due to their slow movement.
Insulation in buildings can reduce fossil fuel energy consumption while protecting crops and livestock. There exist numerous options for limiting heat transfer and regulating indoor temperatures to enhance crop and livestock yields and minimize losses, and to create an optimal microclimate by altering photosynthesis and water balance in crops while reducing energy loss. Certain materials, such as natural agricultural textiles can be used to insulate farm structures, while polyethylene and nylon provide more protection from extreme weather. Aerogels are low-density porous materials derived from gels that can tolerate extremely hot temperatures (up to 650°C) and humid conditions, while also serving as a barrier to repel pests. Phase-change materials are composites that absorb and release heat during phase transitions, helping to maintain stable temperatures and reduce energy consumption for both heating and cooling. Lastly, the planting of cover crops and trees or shrubs for shade plays a key role as a biological insulation option to protect crops
Specifically, in greenhouses, similar opportunities are on hand to increase energy efficiency, incorporating heating, cooling, ventilation and insulation, alongside lighting. LED lights can save up to 40 percent of the energy consumed by compact fluorescent lamps and up to 90 percent compared to incandescent bulbs. For insulation, thermal screens help with retaining heat, while also serving as shades to combat overheating in warmer climates or during summer months, reducing the need for cooling. Horticultural bubble wrap has been increasingly adopted by all types of growers to line the inside of the greenhouse to increase heat retention without impacting light transmission. Digital greenhouse and other farming systems facilitate all aspects of on-farm management while promoting energy savings.
Other on-farm technologies include solar-powered poultry and egg incubators, which again maximize the power of the sun to increase farm efficiency.
Agrivoltaics: solar panels in fields and pastures
Solar energy is key to reducing emissions and tackling climate change, and large-scale solar power is on the rise. However, suitable locations for solar installations often conflict with crop or grazing land, and historically these have been placed without sufficient consideration for the ecosystems around them
Agrivoltaics optimizes land use efficiency of solar energy by pairing crop production and grazing with solar farms. This can be achieved by installing efficient solar panels and trackers that tilt panels to follow the sun while allowing plants to grow beneath. Trackers can be expensive, though the cost varies depending on several factors. There are two types: single-axis trackers follow the sun’s movement from east to west and are generally less expensive than dual-axis trackers that adjust both horizontally and vertically, optimizing solar capture throughout the day and year. This is more complex and enables higher precision. Cost can also vary based on the size of the agrivoltaics system and on installation and maintenance needs.
This can then serve as an adaptation tool to support increased farm productivity while also meeting mitigation needs.
Innovations in semitransparent modules and sun trackers reduce plant evapotranspiration and optimize shading to improve crop yields and quality
Agrivoltaics installation capacity has increased from 5 MW in 2012 to more than 14 GW in 2021
Aquavoltaics: solar panels and fish ponds
By 2050, aquaculture, or the cultivation of fish and aquatic animals and plants
Aquavoltaics enables the coproduction of aquatic animals and solar power, which is particularly beneficial for aquaculture systems that require high energy input due to their need for artificial oxygen supply
Using floating, elevated or other forms of PV modules offers the possibility to substitute fossil-based energy sources without the occupation of additional land
On-farm waste-to-energy systems bolster the circular economy
As detailed in the rural households and rural communities sections, anaerobic digesters (or biodigesters) are receptacles where organic wastes such as animal dung or crop leftovers are disposed of and left to ferment and produce biogas, which can then be used for cooking, lighting or operating on-farm machinery to fuel boilers or heaters for on-farm operations, or to produce electricity for on-farm use or grid injection. The World Bank reports that biogas energy can address energy access obstacles in SSA, particularly in rural areas
Crop cultivation is seeing widespread innovation
Crop cultivation can achieve energy efficiency by tapping into electric tractors and innovative no-till machines while reducing GHG emissions through low tillage methods. The latest methane tractors enable the use of biomethane produced from biodigesters as tractor fuel. Crop cultivation can also be supported through robotic weeding and seeding machines that employ real-time kinetic technology, which aids in precision (and wastes less energy) using surveying techniques that correct errors in GPS systems. For more on no-tillage and robotics technologies, see the 2023 Green Technology Book climate change mitigation edition.
Fertilizer production consumes large quantities of energy. Fertilizers have long been produced using technologies such as the Haber–Bosch process, which has typically relied on non-renewable resources such as natural gas as the main source of hydrogen. The production of this hydrogen by renewable energy-powered electrolysis instead of steam methane reforming has the potential to reduce the emissions from fertilizer production. The second step in the process (the Haber–Bosch reaction), which also requires a large quantity of energy to synthesize ammonia (NH₃) from nitrogen (N₂) and hydrogen (H₂) gases, can also be powered by renewable energy sources
Smart farming cloud management platforms facilitate digitized cultivation processes, providing a wealth of information to farmers to improve decision-making and enhance farm energy efficiency and productivity. These devices can support decision-making on inputs for specific crops under certain climatic conditions, providing information on weather forecasts, pests and insects, and algorithms to promote sustainable practices such as soil, water and energy conservation.
Leasing arrangements and cooperative models make energy-efficiency technologies accessible
Upgrading farm equipment is critical to increasing energy-efficiency and improving productivity, and the rising demand for sustainable practices and precision farming further stimulates the need for specialized equipment.
Leasing has emerged as a financing option that can provide farmers a cost-effective alternative to purchases and loans, allowing them to access specialized equipment that may be prohibitively expensive to purchase. Additionally, payments on leases can be tailored to match preferred payment schedules. Leases often offer flexibility when they end, with options to renew, purchase, trade or return the equipment. Leasing can provide tax benefits, depending on the type of lease. Leasing also ensures that the equipment is maintained for optimal functioning throughout the leasing term.
Additionally, cooperative models are an option offered through farmers’ associations. These allow farmers to use expensive machinery through cooperatives or shared equipment businesses. Farmers sign contracts or pay membership fees to use a piece of machinery for a certain amount of time each year. They may also use tool-lending networks or direct co-ownership models.
Irrigation innovations and solar-powered pump systems save water and energy
The imperative to use less water is vital to meet water and energy efficiency, climate change and sustainable development goals. Various techniques, discussed in more detail in the climate mitigation and adaptation editions of the Green Technology Book, can support efficient irrigation. Drip irrigation pumps use low-pressure systems, requiring less fuel and therefore less energy. Drip irrigation is also more efficient than sprinkler irrigation and enables plants to better use water due to its application at the plant’s root zone while reducing evaporation and runoff as well. Variable rate irrigation can optimize agricultural irrigation by scheduling according to soil variations using irrigation prescription maps paired with software-driven variable rate irrigators and individual sprinkle control
Sensors that track soil moisture status can help farmers know where and when to irrigate crops, and are now connected to applications in smartphones and farm management platforms that provide real-time data around the clock. The sensors allow farmers to monitor and optimize water use and control irrigation remotely. Some newer sensors can be inserted into trees to measure stem water potential, providing accurate data to monitor water status in crops.
Seizing on the power of gravity, micro irrigation technologies present alternatives to flood irrigation, which tends to waste water. Simple, reliable and used for hundreds of years, hydro-powered pumps use energy from flowing rivers and canals to pump water for agriculture without requiring any fuel or electricity, while solar pumps are proving to be a boon to small-scale farmers globally, providing an array of options for off-grid operations.
The solar water pump market has grown significantly due to the reduced cost of PV panels, increased government support, user-friendliness and expanded system capacity and efficiency
Since the early 2000s, the solar water pump market has grown significantly due to the reduced cost of PV panels, increased government support, user-friendliness and expanded system capacity and efficiency
The two main types of solar water pump technologies are the centrifugal pump that uses high-speed rotation to pull water in through the middle of the pump, used mostly in conventional AC pumps, and positive displacement pumps that force water out of a chamber using a piston or helical rotor. Positive displacement pumps can be less effective when operating at low power, which occurs during cloudy conditions, whereas centrifugal pumps are slower, but work well under low power conditions and can achieve high lift.
Additionally, solar pumps are either DC or AC, whereby DC solar pumps are suited to small applications and are relatively inexpensive because they do not need inverters to produce AC power from the solar panels. AC solar pumps utilize inverters that convert the solar or battery DC current into AC power. They are suitable across a wider range of applications (higher water head and volume) but are more expensive and require slightly more maintenance.
Two main types of water pumps most used in solar-powered irrigation systems are surface and submersible pumps. Surface pumps use suction to lift water into the pump and then push it to where it is needed. These pumps are best for accessible water sources and are optimized for a higher flow rate. Submersible pumps must be fully submerged and are often found in boreholes and deep wells (below the suction depth limit of surface pumps).
BLDC solar water pumps have emerged as an option with several advantages, including increased energy-efficiency. They integrate with solar power systems and using their precise control can counteract the intermittency of solar energy and optimize solar power. BLDC motors do not use brushes to deliver current into the coils on the rotor (since the rotor is a permanent magnet), so they are also quieter and present fewer needs for maintenance while enabling a longer lifespan.
Significant advances in pump controllers, which enable monitoring and control of the pump speed, have also been supporting the implementation of efficient irrigation. Incidentally, VSD technologies enhance energy efficiency across a range of farm machinery. They adjust a motor’s speed based on a range of parameters rather than just using a simple on/off switch that runs the motor at full power and does not adapt to the actual need
Farmer education on energy efficiency is key
Farmers are often eager to transition toward more sustainable and energy-efficient technologies and machinery. However, they may need support in learning about and adopting technologies, including comprehensive information and educational and training programs. They may also benefit from incentives for energy efficiency improvements that can benefit climate change while enhancing their operations. Through agriculture extension services, farmers can be connected with subsidized energy audits and expertise to enable them to better understand current energy expenditures and how they can be improved.
For example, programs such as the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) provide grants, rebates, incentives and low-cost financing for agricultural producers and rural small businesses to install renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improvements. Energy audits are often a prerequisite or a recommended step. They help identify where energy improvements can be made, providing data and insights to inform decisions about future investments in energy efficiency or renewable energy systems.
Innovation examples
Project Nexus dual-use systems in the Central Valley of California
Project Nexus is implementing a series of pilot projects to test the placing of solar panels over canals and aqueducts. They are slated to become dual-use systems that can conserve water in a notoriously drought-prone area that is used heavily for agriculture and requires large quantities of irrigation water. The dual-use systems will ultimately reduce evapotranspiration while maximizing the generation of renewable energy, saving land, and achieving other environmental, social and economic synergies. The project is a collaboration between Solar Aqua Grid, a development firm focused on innovative solutions for water and energy issues, California’s Department of Water Resources, the public irrigation district and University of California-Merced. It will establish the technical knowledge needed to enable scaling up of the technology in narrow and wide aqueducts and will also test the incorporation of battery storage alongside the solar canals. Connecting solar canals to local energy users could reduce both costs and energy losses, which have become prolific in the state over the last few decades. The project could also increase energy access for vulnerable groups that are impacted by high electricity costs in less energy-efficient homes. In the long run, the project is transforming an aging canal infrastructure and repurposing it for the future. It is scheduled for completion in 2024
Iberdrola’s WineSolar project maximizes solar while improving wine grape cultivation
Iberdrola has implemented the first agrivoltaics plant in Spain, a project called WineSolar, at the González Byass and Grupo Emperador vineyards located in Toledo. The installation enables PV modules to be adapted to the cultivation needs of the vineyards to modulate sun exposure and temperatures using shade created by the panels. The project is a collaboration between Iberdrola, the solutions provider Techedge, and PVH, a solar tracker and panel manufacturer. It was executed through the Iberdrola group’s international startup program PERSEO, which aims to connect the company to innovative and sustainable technologies while fostering the startup ecosystem in the electricity sector. The solar trackers are controlled by an algorithm to determine the optimal position of the panels throughout the day, with the degree of inclination determined using information collected by the vineyard's sensors that monitor data on soil humidity, wind conditions, solar radiation and the width of vine trunks. The installation’s objectives include improving the quality of the grapes, reducing irrigation water consumption, improving crop resistance to rising temperatures and increasingly frequent heat waves, and maximizing multiple land uses. The project exhibits the benefits of using land to simultaneously produce solar energy and agriculture products to improve sustainability, productivity and efficiency. Iberdrola plans to replicate the system across additional Spanish vineyards, which currently constitute 13 percent of vineyards globally
Technology solutions
Proven
Solar-powered pump: solar pumps for one acre/two acres
Futurepump
Futurepumps are surface water pumps that can pump from shallow wells, streams, rivers, lakes or water pans. The SE1 is a pump designed for farms up to one acre, while the SF2 is designed for farms of up to two acres. The pumps have a suction depth of 7 m. Flow rates are affected by the vertical pump height and the quantity of sunshine; for the SE1 the average rate is 1,600 liters/h, while the SF2 is 3,600 liters/h. The pumps are compatible with sprinklers, hosepipes and drip irrigation.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Low
Country of origin: India
Availability: United Kingdom, Kenya, Netherlands, Nepal, India
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Solar-powered pump: ACQ80 solar pump drive
ABB
The ACQ80 VSD for solar water pumps works with both DC solar panels and AC grid power sources, enabling it to operate continuously by blending both AC and DC input supplies. It has a wide input voltage range from 225 to 800 V DC and uses built-in MPPT that ensures optimal power output from solar panels throughout the day to maximize pump performance. This enables the drive to operate the pump motor even during periods of low sunlight. The ACQ80 has built-in pumping features including flow calculation, dry-run protection, pump cleaning and multiple smart-operating modes and fieldbus connection for integration into control systems. It is compatible with induction motors and permanent-magnet-assisted synchronous reluctance motors in both submersible and surface type pumps.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Sweden & Switzerland
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Greenhouse insulation: horticultural bubble wrap
Solawrap
Polydress® SolaWrap is a lightweight polyethylene material that provides uniform illumination via air cushions (at 1,000 bubbles per square meter) while creating a microclimate that promotes plant growth. It provides UV protection and is extremely durable to prevent leaks, ensuring that 95 percent of the heat radiation is retained. However, it is still easy to cut with scissors or a knife, which simplifies installation. SolaWrap offers higher light transmission than glass, decreasing the need for supplemental lighting, while also providing insulation for colder climates. It is 100 percent recyclable. Solawrap also provides greenhouse kits.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: United States
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Irrigation: gravity-powered micro irrigation
N-drip
N-drip is gravity-powered micro irrigation technology aimed at serving as an alternative to flood irrigation and producing higher yields while saving water and energy. It maximizes leveled fields, flood infrastructure and gravitational force for irrigation. The proprietary dripper does not require water filters, as it is resistant to a high level of suspended particles. Given that transitioning from flood irrigation (which typically wastes water) is expensive, N-drip is more affordable and provides a solution with easy deployment to help farmers achieve more precise and efficient irrigation while utilizing existing infrastructure.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Low
Country of origin: Israel
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Waste-to-energy: prefabricated modular biodigester package for small/medium-sized farms
Sistema.bio
Sistema.bio is a prefabricated high-efficiency modular biodigester package that includes a set of biogas appliances. The biodigester systems are designed for small and medium-sized farms and transform waste (including manure from cows, pigs, sheep, rabbits, goats, horses and even humans) into biogas, which can be used either for cooking, heating, as mechanical energy supporting farm activities or for electricity production, and organic fertilizer. It offers a pay-as-you-go model and assistance and training for installation and operation, with training hubs offered on five continents. Biodigesters are available in 11 different sizes.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Mexico
Availability: Mexico, Kenya, Colombia, India, Malawi, Uganda, Ghana
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Aquaculture: solar shrimp feeder
Ecowater China Aquaculture Technology
Solar shrimp feeders use renewable energy to automate the feeding process in shrimp ponds. The system contains two 100 W solar panels, and energy is stored in a 12 V, 100 A-h battery that can last for 5–7 days. A 600 W pure sine wave inverter converts DC into AC to drive two 220 V motors within the feeder, which dispense the shrimp feed. Using a controller, the feeder is set to automatically dispense feed at predetermined intervals. This ensures consistent feeding and maintains water quality.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: China
Availability: China
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Aquaculture: floating PV for ponds (floating platforms and floating body)
Sungrow
Sungrow provides floating PV systems for ponds. The floating body is made from food-grade materials that are environmentally friendly and resistant to hydrolysis. The inverter and booster floating platform ensure safety, minimizes DC cable loss, and enables convenient on-site installation, operation and maintenance. The customized anchoring system can be tailored to project-specific conditions, such as varying water depths and water level variations.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: China
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Frontier
Crop cultivation: methane power tractor
New Holland
The T6 Methane Power tractor enables the use of biomethane produced from biodigesters as tractor fuel. The tractor produces 98 percent less particulate matter and when running biomethane enables a 10 to 15 percent reduction of CO2 emissions. Compressed natural gas can also be used. Multiple fuel tanks provide a 185 liter capacity, and a front-mounted range extender provides an additional 270 liter capacity for extended periods between tank fill-ups.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: United States
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Irrigation: water consumption sensor
Telaqua
Telaqua employs sensors connected 24/7 that measure water flow and pressure in real time. MANO is a plug-and-play sensor that allows farmers to monitor and control their water consumption. The web and mobile application IrrigEase can be paired with MANO, which provides farmers with the ability to control the opening and closing of valves remotely, and to control the entire system. IrrigEase can also be used to alert farmers if issues arise. The estimated water consumption savings using MANO are 12 percent and energy savings can be up to 30 percent.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: France
Availability: Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Spain, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Cameroon, Tanzania, South Africa
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Irrigation: data management platform
Kilimo
Kilimo’s technology focuses on optimizing irrigation practices to improve water use efficiency in agriculture. The company offers a software-as-a-service-enabled marketplace, or data management platform, that uses AI to help farmers reduce irrigation and allows them to sell water offsets to companies pledging to be water neutral. The platform uses data to enhance decision-making, optimize water use and improve crop yields. It integrates weather forecasts, soil moisture levels and satellite imagery to enable a better understanding of the conditions affecting irrigation needs. The platform can also automate irrigation processes, reducing the need for manual adjustments and ensuring that water is applied more precisely and efficiently, thereby saving water and energy. Kilimo currently serves farmers in six countries, including large corporations and micro farmers, helping them reduce water use by 20 percent.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Argentina
Availability: Latin America
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Aquaculture: windmill aerator
Koenders
The single diaphragm windmill is designed for smaller ponds of up to one acre and 7.5 m depth, and can transfer up to 25,000 cubic feet of oxygen per month. The dual windmill systems are designed for larger or irregularly shaped ponds larger than one acre and provide twice the air volume (50,000 cubic feet) for additional aeration. The systems work well in remote and off-grid locations and in places where additional aeration is needed, such as larger lakes where windmill aeration can complement electric systems to support efficient oxygen distribution.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Canada
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Solar appliance: solar fishing lantern
WeTu
The rechargeable solar WeTu Hunter and NIWA Lago 600 fishing lanterns are intended for use in Lake Victoria. They use lithium-ion batteries instead of lead–acid batteries or kerosene-powered lanterns. The lanterns are provided to clients via rental agreements and recharged exclusively though the WeTu hubs, which helps ensure that they are reused and recycled. They operate for up to 12 hours and have built-in vibration protection that secures the lanterns in rougher fishing waters. The lanterns are also capable of floating, which ensures they won’t be lost or contribute to waste or damage to the lake.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Kenya
Availability: Kenya
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Livestock: variable speed ventilation fan with inverter technology for egg, poultry, or pig houses
Big Dutchman-Asia
Air Master EVO is the upgrade of the existing Big Dutchman’s V130/140 fan series suitable for tunnel ventilation environments in egg, poultry or pig production houses. It uses an IE3 (premium efficiency and ideal for continuous or near-continuous operations) inverter motor and is composed of high-quality galvanized steel structure with fiberglass reinforced blades and pretensioned V-belt. The fan achieves uniform ventilation using lower power consumption. Compared to traditional fans with on/off switches that use more energy with every stop-start cycle, the AirMaster ECO uses a variable speed inverter motor to adjust the fan speed, which reduces energy consumption by as much as 70 percent in most applications. The motor often operates at a top capacity of only 60 percent since it does not need to compensate for lost energy. It is available in three- or six-blade configurations.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Malaysia
Availability: Asia
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Livestock: livestock tube ventilation system
Cow-Welfare
The Cowsy Breeze Tube Ventilation System provides fresh air induction for enclosed spaces. It employs a tube design with a long tube or sleeve running along the internal length of the building through which fresh air is supplied from fans and is directed to the animal housing boxes. The height of the tube is adapted to the individual barn. Openings that are evenly placed ensure steady airflow reaches ventilated and unventilated areas. This introduces fresh air without creating drafts, thereby also reducing airborne bacteria that can cause respiratory diseases. This single fan tube of up to 70 m can replace numerous conventional fans and reduce electricity costs.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Denmark
Availability: Europe
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Livestock: solar-powered poultry incubator
Lifeway Solar
The semi-automatic solar incubator can hatch 100 quail, 40 chicken or 25 goose eggs. It contains fully automatic heat control inside a fiberglass cabinet with puff insulation that improves temperature stability and operational efficiency. The electric proportional thermostat is protected against power variations and a battery is also provided for power stability, to which a 12 V/40 W PV panel is connected with charge controller to ensure 24-hour supply. The fan provides fresh airflow, and humidity is supplied manually using a water bowl kept outside the incubator and connected to perforated PVC piping system. The capacity ranges from 200 to 500 eggs. The incubator was developed for unemployed women in rural India as a self-employment project to support their families, and Lifeway Solar works with various NGOs to train women to use the product where there is no electricity. The incubators can also be rented.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: India
Availability: India, Africa
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Agrivoltaics: agri-PV systems using algorithms to control solar shading
SunAgri
SunAgri systems control solar shading according to the crop’s needs using algorithms that are based on weather forecasts, plant growth patterns, temperature and humidity sensors, and cultivation objectives. The company devises a sunlight management strategy adapted to specific needs. The metal mounting system accounts for planting density, plant height and the use of machinery; the lower level is for the plants and the upper level is for electricity production. A third party carries out agronomic monitoring for five years to regularly collect data. There is an application, MySunAgri, that can track the collected data via mobile phone or tablet.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: France
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Horizon
Crop cultivation: zero-carbon nitrogen fertilizer
Atlas Agro
Atlas Agro zero-carbon nitrogen fertilizer is made without burning natural gas. First, hydrogen is produced through water electrolysis using renewable energy; then nitrogen is split from air within an air separation unit and mixed with hydrogen to produce ammonia, which is then converted into nitric acid and later into calcium ammonium nitrate. The patent was developed using a combination of the technologies that have been adapted to the use of renewable energy.
Contracting type: Under development
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Switzerland
Availability: N/A
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Aquaculture: oyster fishing solar-powered boats
VoltaViewAfrica
Women in the Gambia traditionally fish for oysters with hand or petrol-powered boats, which can be difficult, time-consuming and expensive. Electric motors enable faster and more efficient trips. The batteries can also fuel cool boxes to keep the oysters fresh. Fraunhofer HHI and partner company VoltaMove GmbH collaborated to produce compact e-outboard motors specifically designed for SSA. The battery systems use sodium-ion battery cell technology, which is only recently commercially available. This technology has several advantages, including that it requires no scarce raw materials, carries no risk of fire or explosion, and offers recycling possibilities. The batteries can be charged using a foldable solar roof mounted on the boat. An initial prototype was tested on a tourist boat in the Gambia.
Contracting type: Under development
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: The Gambia
Availability: The Gambia
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Aquaculture: floating solar farm for aquaculture (salmon/trout)
Alotta
Alotta solutions to electrify fish farms are intended for salmon and trout. Areas without a connection to the grid can use the floating solar power plant with battery storage, reducing noise and a reliance on diesel generators. The Solar Hybrid phase 1 technology complements onshore power or fossil energy sources and be fully integrated into aquaculture facilities and to the existing energy system on feeding barges, which are now often equipped with energy management systems and can create hybrid feeding barges. Recycled floating cages are used as floating solar plants. Clean hybrid phase 2 will combine solar and hydrogen by integrating the floating system with a hydrogen fuel cell system on the feeding platform. Clean vision phase 3 enables the independent production and storage of green hydrogen produced through water electrolysis, and larger quantities of energy can be stored to supply the aquaculture facility year-round.
Contracting type: For sale (phase 2 and 3 under development)
Technology level: High
Country of origin: Norway
Availability: Norway
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Aquaculture: solar oyster production system
Solar Oysters LLC
Solar Oysters has partnered with Blue Oyster Environmental to further develop the Solar Oysters Production System (SOPS) in Maryland, USA. The SOPS prototype contains solar panels that rotate 575 oyster cages on five ladders to 16 feet depth and a solar-powered spray wash system. It functions by increasing the oysters’ access to dissolved oxygen, food, and salinity and exposes them to sunlight, which can reduce biofouling. The prototype is projected to produce up to 200,000 oysters in a 0.02-acre space. The project produced 400,000 spat on shells in 2022/23 using one-third of this capacity. Further refinements to the technology will be made. One SOPS is operational on an active oyster aquaculture farm, and a final SOPS product will then be introduced to the aquaculture market by Blue Oyster Environmental, the North American distributor.
Contracting type: Under development
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: United States
Availability: N/A
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Waste-to-energy: farm powered anaerobic digestion facilities
Vanguard Renewables
VANGUARD Renewables are developing manure-only and co-digestion anaerobic digestion facilities in multiple states in the United States, focusing on transforming organic waste into renewable energy, low-carbon fertilizer and dry animal bedding. They collect organic waste from various sources, including food and beverage manufacturers, and use advanced processing to divert waste from landfills. Their farm-powered anaerobic digestion process converts this waste into carbon-negative renewable natural gas, supporting regenerative agriculture and providing clean energy to utilities and businesses. Their solution accommodates farms of all sizes and generates valuable by-products for agricultural use. They plan to expand across the United States, aiming to commission over 100 anaerobic digestion (AD) facilities by 2028. Starting from April 2024, through a joint venture with TotalEnergies, they have plans to lead the development, construction and operation of numerous AD facilities nationwide.
Contracting type: For sale/collaboration
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: United States
Availability: United States
Contact: WIPO Green Database
Green energy solutions for agriculture post-harvest
The global agrifood system plays a large role in contributing to climate change and currently accounts for 30 percent of total global energy demand, most of which is fossil fuel-based
Major challenges facing the global agrifood system are ensuring food security, sustaining farmer livelihoods, and enabling environmental protection, including decarbonizing the energy system underpinning food production. Deploying decentralized renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies for post-harvest processing and storage is key for climate mitigation and enabling sustainable agriculture globally
Technological developments and trends
The global food system emits about one-third of global annual GHG emissions, of which food loss and waste constitute a staggering 50 percent share
While agrifood supply chains operate in all countries, their level of technological development differs, which is visible in various GHG emissions patterns. In developed countries, the post-harvest stages of value chains contribute to roughly half of the agrifood system’s total emissions, whereas the share is about 25 percent in developing countries
Figure 3.4 shows global GHG emissions from food by life-cycle stage for 1990, 2000, 2010, and 2015.
Generally, energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies are available now and costs are falling, as exhibited in the case of solar PV since the 2000s
Despite a growing number of available solutions, several technologies favor commercial farmers over smallholders due to costs. Therefore, other aspects must be considered in the scale-up of the adoption of technologies to reduce post-harvest losses. These include improved access to micro-finance, deployment of mini-grids, micro-enterprise training, support of farmer cooperation (e.g. collective production services and marketing) and improved understanding of the integration of smallholder farming into commercial supply chains
What happens during post-harvest processing?
During the post-harvest period, produce undergoes drying, cutting, threshing, milling, winnowing and other forms of processing before distribution. Food processing also encompasses evaporation, fermentation, pasteurization, sterilization, livestock slaughter and processing, cooling and cold storage, value addition and retail. Energy is used as an input to all these stages
Drying is a crucial step following harvest to maintain crop quality, lessen storage losses and lower transportation costs. It is a key step for most staple crops; additionally, 20 percent of perishable horticulture crops are dried for preservation
Drying can be done naturally with sun or shade or using mechanical dryers. Sun drying is labor-intensive, weather-dependent and vulnerable to losses incurred or contamination by dust, insects, birds and rodents. Mechanical drying tackles some of these issues; however, it is energy-intensive, and smallholder farmers still suffer from the limitations of high up-front and maintenance costs of dryers, adequate size availability and lack of knowledge regarding their use
Active solar dryers maximize the power of the sun with solar PV panels that provide an energy source used in evaporative cooling systems, and to power lights and charge cell phones. In developing countries, different factors may sometimes determine farmer preferences for solar dryers, not all related to food preservation. For example, the improved product hygiene provided by active solar dryers appealed to smallholder farmers in Nepal
Threshing detaches grains from panicles manually, with animal power, or the use of mechanical threshers. Cleaning is performed after threshing to separate whole grains from broken grains and other materials like straw and sand. Winnowing is a common method in developing countries, whereby screening or sifting can also be done manually or mechanically. Insufficiently cleaned grains risk mold growth, insect infestation and unacceptable taste or color.
Milling or processing operations vary for different grains, and again can be performed manually or with milling machines. In rural areas, milling is accomplished manually by repeated pounding. Milling yields are dependent on the method, crop conditions and operator skills, and milling machines that are not well-maintained contribute to food loss. Studies have revealed that rice milling yields at small village level in several Asian countries were as low as 57 percent (compared to theoretical yields of 71 to 73 percent) due to grain loss caused by lack of maintenance, small scale, and poor calibration
Grain loss and waste is prevalent along the supply chain
Food loss during post-harvest is especially pronounced for grains, which account for 70 percent of all calories consumed globally
It is also important to recognize that grain losses occur at different points along the supply chain depending on the global region. In Thailand, the biggest waste occurs during handling and storage (19 percent), while in Peru the loss is due to drying in fields and the ensuing exposure to rodents and insects
Hermetic grain storage offers a very simple and environmentally friendly option to store grains in airtight containers to prevent spoilage and insect infestation. Options include airtight bags, cocoon storage using specialized containers, container storage using modified shipping containers with airtight seals, and bunker storage using underground facilities that are also sealed. Hermetic storage methods are decent options for smallholder farmers with limited access to modern technologies due to their low cost and complexity.
Grain drying systems are energy-intensive, but solutions abound
Grain drying systems are critical while often proving to be one of the most energy-intensive systems in larger farming operations
In developed countries, grain dryers are generally divided into batch and continuous flow dryers that are typically operated using propane or natural gas to heat air to high temperatures. Batch bin dryers are simple, requiring only a storage bin containing a perforated floor and a blower to transport heated air. Their major disadvantage is that the grain on the bottom is often overdried during efforts to dry grain on top, increasing energy use and reducing grain weight. Continuous flow dryers (also called crossflow, counter flow, concurrent flow and mixed flow) are named according to their airflow paths. Continuous flow mixed-flow dryers maintain airflow in both counter and concurrent directions and use about 40 percent less energy than crossflow dryers. To improve efficiency without investing in a whole new system, the dryer bins themselves can be adapted to higher efficiency using Shivvers systems, as covered in the technology solutions section.
Stirators are used in continuous flow bin dryers. They move grain vertically while a stirring device rotates around the bin, which elevates dry grain from near the bin floor, enabling higher moisture grain to replace it. In-bin cooling processes take grain from the dryer directly to the final storage bin, where it cools slowly, increasing dryer performance. Dryeration is a process that uses a grain’s residual heat to remove moisture during cooling.
Moisture sensing controls maximize the energy savings potential of the overall system and its components, and automate drying processes including heater operation adjustments, fan operations, monitoring of the target transfer moisture conditions, grain removal process and in-bin cooling.
Geothermal is part of the solution
Geothermal heat energy can be used for drying fruits, vegetables, grains, meat and fish. Geothermal heat pumps, exploiting residual heat in shallow soils, can be used for electric and thermal-driven cold storage and refrigeration, and geothermal direct use (where hot geothermal fluids are directly used) can be employed for pasteurization, fermentation and evaporation. Geothermal electricity can power processing equipment
Renewables-based post-harvest technologies have limited uptake in developing countries
Agro-processing systems that are based on either standalone renewables or mini-grids can be cost-effective while reducing emissions, promoting decentralized processing infrastructure and decreasing the need for labor-intensive processing activities
However, mini-grids that power post-harvest processes, including milling, oil-pressing and ice-making, are currently somewhat limited (
Dairy processing achieves higher efficiency in the absence of heat
Dairy processing is one of the most energy-intensive sectors in the agrifood industry
Ultra-high temperature treatment and sterilization processes are more energy-intensive as higher temperatures are required. Nonthermal is a broad term for food processing techniques used in the absence of direct heat, which have been gaining ground in the food industry, as they reduce energy consumption, processing costs and waste while offering even better ways of preserving nutritional, taste and smell properties of foods than traditional heat-based methods
Nonthermal processes based on membranes are also used for dairy, including reverse osmosis, microfiltration, ultrafiltration and nanofiltration, which accomplish sterilization from microorganisms using a microscopic filter or membrane to remove them (with these differing based on the pore size of the membranes). Because milk is mostly composed of water, reverse osmosis membranes remove water from cooled milk.
Technologies to improve the energy efficiency of dairy production also include vat wraps and plate coolers. Vat wraps are insulating materials typically made from substances like foam that improve efficiency by maintaining the temperature of milk during processing, providing up to 20 percent energy savings. Moreover, employing a heat recovery system reduces water heating costs by as much as 50 percent.
Due to the need to prevent spoilage, milk needs to be cooled quickly from a temperature of 37°C to 4°C. Plate coolers are composed of a series of thin stainless-steel plates arranged in a stack. Warm milk flows through channels between the plates, while cold water (or another cooling fluid) flows through adjacent channels on the opposite side of the plates. As the warm milk flows over the cold plates, heat is transferred from the milk to the cooling fluid, which reduces the temperature quickly, decreasing the demand for dairy cooler compressors and lowering the bacterial count in the milk. Pasteurization can also be accomplished with an innovative UV solution for opaque liquids that uses a filter technology to ensure that only the germicidal wavelengths reach the product.
Spray dryers employed to evaporate the liquid in milk using a stream of hot air utilize a great deal of energy, which can be optimized to increase efficiency, flexibility and speed using digital twins (virtual models of the system). And robotic milking systems offer enhanced efficiency, while solar-powered milk chillers and rapid milk chillers use the power of the sun in remote areas.
Cold chains are critical to the global food supply chain
A cold chain is a temperature-controlled supply chain which ensures that proper low temperatures are maintained throughout the product’s journey. Securing the cold chain is fundamental at each stage to reduce losses, increase shelf life and prevent the loss of perishable harvested crops. Including industrial and domestic refrigeration, the cold chain accounts for 5 percent of global GHG food-system emissions, and this share of total emissions is slated to increase
Producers in developing countries often store food in basic rooms instead of modern warehouses or cold rooms. Fruits and vegetables in Africa incur significant losses due to the lack of cold chain infrastructure, estimated at about 52 percent of production
Modern refrigeration technologies save energy and the ozone layer
Refrigeration has revolutionized food consumption and storage patterns. Extended food preservation has diversified diets, transformed shopping habits, and enabled global food trade alongside the evolution of the processed food industry. However, it has also exacerbated climate change through the emission of refrigerants and energy consumption. The refrigeration sector, including air conditioning, contributes roughly 17 percent of global electricity consumption, even exceeding 40 percent of total national electricity demand in some countries
The refrigeration sector, including air conditioning, exceeds 40 percent of total national electricity demand in some countries
Fortunately, refrigeration technologies have evolved, and refrigerators and freezers are now much more energy efficient. Refrigerators are increasingly using advanced adaptive compressors that operate smoothly at varying speeds and maintain the ideal temperature more efficiently than traditional compressors. Improved insulation in refrigerators such as vacuum insulation panels and polyurethane foam reduce heat transfer. And of course, energy-efficient LED lighting can now be used instead of incandescent bulbs to consume less energy. Some refrigerators now contain convertible freezer compartments that can be altered to function as either refrigerators or freezers, enabling users to tailor temperature zones to specific needs. Advanced freezers use microprocessor temperature control and defrost sensors to optimize cooling and reduce energy consumption.
Blast freezing is an energy-intensive process, during which pallets of fresh produce are placed in blast freezers (large rooms), where very cold air is “blasted” through them, initiating the freezing process to enable safe storage and transport. Some innovative solutions are in the works targeting the energy intensity of this technique. One is the newly developed IcePoint system, discussed in the horizon technologies section, which is the first freeze point suppression system to utilize on-demand agile cooling and moisture control. This process creates a –40°C refrigerant at night by mixing ice with a freeze point suppressant such as salt, and then deploying the brine refrigerant during the day for required cooling and moisture control. The mixture is ultimately separated into water and freeze suppressant, while reusing both and continuing the cycle, and enabling the right amount of cooling exactly when needed.
Historically, many refrigerants, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons, were found to be harmful to the ozone layer. These substances, when released into the atmosphere, would break down ozone molecules, contributing to ozone depletion. The Montreal Protocol, an international treaty established in 1987, has been highly effective in phasing out the production and use of ozone-depleting substances. This has led to the gradual replacement of harmful refrigerants with alternatives that have lower or no ozone-depleting potential.
Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), such as R22, have a lower ozone depletion potential compared to CFCs but still have some impact. HFCs like R134a and R404A do not deplete the ozone layer but have high GWP, contributing to climate change. Many countries are working to phase out HCFCs as well. It is essential to improve energy efficiency and to adopt refrigerants, including natural refrigerants, that have lower, or zero GHG impacts.
Refrigeration is discussed in Chapters 1 (Green energy solutions for climate action) and 4 (Green energy solutions for essential services), while off-grid refrigeration is also discussed in the rural households section above.
Cold chain logistics bolstered by plentiful innovation
Cold chain logistics encompass the storage and transport of temperature-sensitive goods throughout the supply chain to preserve the quality and safety of perishable food products. The global cold chain logistics market was slated to grow by more than 50 percent between 2021 and 2028
Major trends in energy-efficient innovations for warehouses and transportation include the adoption of phase-change materials, which absorb energy during phase transitions and maintain cool temperatures efficiently, increased investment in cold storage infrastructure, and standardized temperature control across the supply chain.
In addition to modern refrigeration systems, improved insulation, ventilation and humidity control have contributed to the required maintenance of precise conditions for perishable goods. Monitoring and tracking technologies are becoming more common, including IoT sensors and GPS to monitor temperatures and locations, and blockchain technologies offer the potential to provide a secure and decentralized transaction record to support the tracing of product origins and storage conditions.
Newly developed automatic polygon geofencing technology creates a virtual geographic boundary to display a destination and to inform others in the supply chain regarding delivery status. This helps to optimize routes. By creating virtual “fences” around specific geographic locations, vehicle movement can be tracked to maximize efficiency.
Electrified transport refrigeration units (eTRUs) deliver wins to food, climate, and even health
Vehicle electrification has created a buzz in the climate conversation, and related technological developments for logistics also warrant excitement. Food and other goods require temperature-controlled conditions along their journeys. TRUs are refrigerated truck trailers that serve this purpose and need a lot of energy. These usually run on diesel to maintain the cargo temperature, typically burning up to 3 liters of diesel per hour. eTRUs are alternatives to conventional diesel-powered TRUs, whereby the refrigeration system’s compressor is driven by an electric motor all or part of the time. eTRUs are not only more energy efficient, but also prevent particulate emissions and wasted heat, and lessen health risks to nearby residents posed by idling trucks and railcars near logistics hubs
In order to fully implement eTRUs, however, electricity infrastructure needs scaling up at idling and other non-transit locations, including truck stops, warehouses and ports to effect wide-scale implementation of eTRUs
Food packaging for retail has been largely based on fossil-fuel plastics
Food packaging is essential to food retail. Currently, most food packaging is made from petroleum-based plastics. These are non-degradable and energy-intensive to produce, relying heavily on fossil fuels. Research toward the development of green or sustainable food packaging has gained momentum, especially under the added impetus of newly instituted plastic bans and other climate pledges. Green food packing connotes two meanings, one that it is non-polluting and harmless for humans, and the other that it is petroleum-derived polymer-free
Nanocellulose has become the focus of new research due to its high specific surface area, biodegradability, material strength and design flexibility
Fisheries and aquaculture need cold chain innovation too
Energy use differs among value chain stages for both fisheries and aquaculture. Post-harvest processing and distribution have relied on fossil fuels, electricity, and also wood for fish smoking
The major technology types for fisheries cold storage include:
Ice flake machines are located at landing sites. Ice flakes can be used by fishermen and fish dealers, for transportation, and by retailers. Depending on location, solar or wind energy can power ice flake machines, which are easy to maintain. Drawbacks of the machines include limited storage time, and substantial power and water requirements for larger machines.
Solar-powered fridges and freezers keep products cold with low operating costs and can be used at landing sites or by individuals, and also for retail storage and processing. However, storage capacity is often limited for large catches. These can be expensive, as the use of batteries incurs costs, as does required maintenance.
Cooler boxes are used at sea and across the supply chain. They are offered in all sizes and can be used in conjunction with ice-making machines.
Cold storage rooms are temperature-controlled rooms that can be solar-powered and are located at landing sites, processing centers, and retailers.
Functional ice is produced by adding vinegar or citric acid to water before freezing, which slows the melting process and slows bacterial growth in fish. This technology, however, is at an early stage of development.
Importantly, inadequate regulatory frameworks and uneven market trends contribute to the issue in both developed and developing countries
Climate adaptation benefits from improved fisheries supply chains include improved nutritional and food security for coastal communities. Climate smart fisheries technologies can increase overall food safety and quality as well, since food handling during processing can also affect the microbial safety of the fish. Some smoking technologies, where used to preserve fish and enhance its flavor, can negatively impact its nutritional retention
Innovation examples
Energy-efficient and eco-friendly refrigeration for the aquaculture industry, Chile
Starting in the 1970s, industrial-scale salmon aquaculture began to boom, and today Chile is the world’s second largest producer of farmed salmon. Many fish farms have complex logistical infrastructure that supports export to foreign markets. The availability of hygienic refrigeration is crucial and historically, the industry standard was to use refrigerants that were harmful to the environment. But then Chile’s Ministry of Environment partnered with the United Nations Industrial Development Programme (UNIDO) to launch a project at Marine Farm, an aquaculture company, to demonstrate the use of natural refrigerants. The three condensing units at Marine Farm, which can store 160 tons of fish per day, housed three condensing units using Freon gas (R22), a synthetic refrigerant with high GWP that damages the ozone layer. The facility also lacked energy efficiency due to its oversized units. A conversion project was launched, whereby ammonia was used to replace Freon in a solution designed by a local company called Sofrisur. At the project completion in late 2023, 10 secondary refrigerant evaporators were installed. The immediate benefit was reduced energy consumption of 10 percent by the facilities. Marine Farm also reduced emissions by 1.2 million kg of CO2eq. Additionally, the use of natural refrigeration supports Chile’s commitments to the Montreal Protocol, has improved food safety processes, and has become an industry example of the benefits of eco-friendly and energy-efficient technologies
Solar Freeze for refugee camps, Kenya
The innovative Kenyan system called Solar Freeze™ supports smallholder farmers in dealing with post-harvest loss using a holistic approach that encompasses storage, transportation and market access. Solar Freeze produces portable solar-powered cold stores to help farmers avoid huge investments in storage space; a cold-chain distribution, logistics and refrigerated transport service with energy-efficient trucks that functions like an Uber service; and mobile access to the cold storage management system through an application and IoT platform. Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya is a settlement of 200,000 people from all over Africa where access to sustainable and affordable energy is limited. Solar Freeze is providing cooling for food and medicine alongside training for 100 people. Freezers are available using the affordable pay-as-you-go model for small shops that use them to store food and drinks, and health centers to store vaccines and treatments. Customers pay USD 1.20 per day, and eventually own their freezer outright after 18–24 months. In addition, in both farming areas and the refugee communities, Solar Freeze operates an initiative called “Each One Teach One” that trains young people aged 18–29 at no cost to install and maintain solar freezers and other solar-powered technologies. Upon completion of the training after 3–4 months, Solar Freeze recruits several trainees as short-term employees
Technology solutions
Proven
Dairy processing: plate cooler
Paul Mueller
The Accu-Therm® plate coolers, also known as plate heat exchangers, use the existing water supply to precool warm milk before it enters the milk cooler. This warmed water is then available for other uses. Precooling reduces the energy and time needed to reach necessary temperatures inside the bulk tank by up to 50 percent. The plate coolers are composed of stainless steel plates compressed onto a frame and separated by gaskets to create flow channels on opposite sides of each plate. Cool water flows down one flow channel while warm water flows up on the opposite side.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: United States
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Dairy processing: pulsed electrified field (PEF) treatment
Elea
PEF dairy treatment consists of passing milk between two electrodes separated by an insulator, and uses short pulses of high-voltage electricity. The electric field opens pores in the cell membranes and inactivates microorganisms. The Elea PEF Advantage™ Pipe system uses low temperatures to ensure that freshness and nutritional value are retained. The Elea PEF process can be applied to raw milk, cheese-making milk, whey and yoghurt drinks without losing any of their nutritional value, which enables the retention of health-promoting ingredients such as immunglobulines (IgG, IgA, IgE etc.) and lysozyme, and maintains its probiotic character.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Germany
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Drying: seafood dryer and solar drying machine
Shuliy Machinery
The seafood drying machine uses an air-energy heat pump that requires small amounts of electricity to absorb a large amount of heat energy to rapidly heat the drying room. It saves energy and ensures that no pollutants are emitted during the drying process. The drying machine can operate automatically once the parameters are determined through the intelligent control system, which helps to prevent overdrying or underdrying. It can dry both freshwater and marine fish. The small mobile solar drying machine is a different product available for small producers to dry vegetables, fruits, grains and meat.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: China
Availability: China
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Drying: continuous flow dryer system
Shivvers
Shivvers is a precision and automation control unit that automatically prevents over drying by using sensors and adjusting heat based on specifications, which helps maintain the drying system’s operation within its most efficient range, preventing energy waste associated with inefficient drying conditions. When grain has reached the right transfer moisture level, the command center automatically transports the dried grain to storage; otherwise, it is kept in the drying zone until ready. The Shivvers system uses the Counter-Flow Grain Drying Process with a deeper grain depth of 91–243 cm instead of the commonly used 30–45 cm range, meaning that the air passes through a larger volume of grain before completion. It also uses lower temperatures while maintaining the versatility to dry a wide variety of crops. Automating the drying process by precisely controlling the temperature and airflow in the drying system ensures that the drying process is conducted at optimal conditions, reducing energy waste and improving efficiency.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: United States
Availability: North America
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Drying: mechanical stirring system used in batch grain dryers
GSI
The StirAtor can cut drying time by 50 percent in low temperature bins, therefore reducing energy expenditure. It uses a spiral stirring pattern that enables the augers to spend more time stirring on the outside of the bin rather than the center of the bin, as half the grain is located in the outside third of the bin. Alongside the StirAtor, the Grain Flow and CalcuDri can convert the bin into an automatic in-bin drying system. The Grain Flow features an 8-inch (20 cm) discharge auger that pulls only the dried grain at the floor of the bin, improving efficiency. Using the StirAtor, the bin becomes a wet holding tank with a depth of up to 5 m, a continuous flow dryer and a dry and store unit. The CalcuDri maintains grain moisture while also controlling the system. The efficient removal of moisture and the uniform drying of the grain reduces the overall drying time and avoids over-drying, saving energy which would otherwise be wasted in reprocessing or correcting inconsistent drying.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: United States
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Cold storage: cold storage warehouse management software
AEB
The cold storage warehouse management software manages and optimizes cold storage facility operations. Through maintaining precise temperature controls and automatically adjusting settings based on actual needs, cooling systems can prevent overcooling and operate more efficiently without unnecessary energy consumption. Additionally, the software performs workflow automation of inventory rotation, helping to maximize the use of available space and reducing the need for excessive cooling capacity, thereby saving energy. It enables product traceability by storing batch numbers and supplier details and ensures accurate tracking and allocation of catch weight item handling (items that are priced according to the exact weight of the item delivered) throughout the supply chain.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Germany
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Cooling: individual quick-freezing (IQF) tunnel freezer
Octofrost
An IQF tunnel freezer uses cold air to individually freeze individual pieces of food separately to preserve their freshness, shape, flavor and nutritional content. The OctoFrost IQF tunnel freezer’s frequency converters that are installed on each fan allow the food processor to adjust fan speed according to the type of product, delivering up to 30 percent savings due to the decreased need for refrigeration to cool down the heat produced by the fans. Fan speeds do not need to exceed 75 to 85 percent, and for some products the speed does not exceed 30 percent, which enables increased energy efficiency. It is the smallest freezer available on the market and arrives ready-built and easily transported on a truck or container ship.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Sweden
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Cold storage: walk-in cooler and mobile cooler
Store It Cold
The CoolBot is a patented digital temperature controller that enables users to create a low-cost walk-in cooler that saves energy by turning a standard air conditioning unit into a cooling machine that can maintain temperatures below 15.5°C. It does this by cycling the conditioner units on and off to avoid freeze-up so that they can cool a room far below the standard temperature. The CoolBot can also save up to 42 percent energy use compared to a conventional refrigeration system due to its use of only one 300 W fan, while a conventional refrigerator compressor may use three to five fans. The reduced air movement in a one-fan system can help keep crops fresher for longer. It can cool a room down to 1°C. The CoolBot Pro offers a mobile application for remote temperature adjustments, critical alerts, and data storage and reporting.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: United States
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Frontier
Dairy processing: UV treatment for opaque liquids
Lyras
UV light has inherent natural antibacterial properties that have commonly been used to disinfect transparent liquids such as drinking water. This technology uses UV to treat opaque liquids such as brine, whey and juice. The Raslysation™ Sirius offers a compact system to treat large quantities of liquid and features a patented filter technology to make sure that only the germicidal wavelengths reach the product. The Raslysation™ Castor is the world’s largest UV unit for treatment of opaque liquids. It is modular, which allows it to be scaled up. The Raslysation™ Polaris is a compact air-cooled mobile standalone unit.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Denmark
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Cold storage: tunnel freezer, non-pressure plate freezer and brine freezer for fish
Skaginn
The freezing systems by Skaginn are energy-efficient and save time and labor. The tunnel freezer enables quick freezing with gentle handling and drip loss, ensuring that thawed products retain shape and texture. The non-pressure plate freezer uses up to 40 percent less energy than conventional blast freezers, is designed to plate freeze to retain product shape, and can freeze up to 100 tons in 24 hours. The automatic brine freezer can tolerate high salinity for crab and shrimp, for example, using a strong brine solution cooled to –17°C with a computer-controlled heat exchanger. Immersion freezing is very efficient due to the 100 percent heat transmission without thermal barriers, resulting in a rapid freezing time. It is also compact and can be installed in both onboard and onshore facilities.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Iceland
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Cold storage: e-cool truck (electric transport refrigeration unit, eTRU)
Carrier Transicold
The Supra e11 single-temperature electric truck refrigeration unit is part of the eCool™ series of products from Carrier Transicold. The Supra eCool electric unit covers 14- to 28-foot, Class 5 to 7 straight truck applications. The e11 unit provides comparable refrigeration performance to the diesel-powered Supra S10 unit. Designed to run off an electric power takeoff on a Battery Electric Vehicle or unique to California application on ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) trucks, units can run autonomously using Carrier’s exclusive power pack. It uses maintenance-free electric evaporators and condenser fans, as well as a sealed electric compressor to reduce the need for maintenance. Additionally, it uses R-452A, a refrigerant with a GWP 45% lower than the traditional refrigerant used in transport applications. The Lynx Fleet™ telematics system conducts remote monitoring of temperature, location, battery charge, and operating performance.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: United States
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Cold storage: atmospheric monitoring and control sensor
PostHarvest
Atmos is an advanced IoT atmospheric monitoring and control sensor that provides for accurate ethylene detection (ethylene being a plant hormone that affects fruit ripening and quality, so its monitoring enables detection of overripe or decaying produce), temperature and humidity. Using PostHarvest’s Cloud Platform, all rooms can be monitored, and storage conditions can be set to the required specifications. The sensor then sends notifications when levels are too high. Using an open application programming interface (API), it is possible to use storage specifications to create room automations; for example, a door could be automated to open if ethylene levels reach a certain point.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Australia
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Cold storage: cold room (and milk chiller)
SelfChill
The SelfChill Cold Room is a plug-and-play installation providing an autonomous, solar-powered cooling system that can be integrated into agricultural value chains to store fruits, vegetables, herbs and seeds at the required temperature and relative humidity. Due to its modularity, it can be tailored to meet specific needs. The SelfChill Milk Tank is a complete pre-configured plug-and-play milk cooling system that can cool up to 1,200 liters of milk per day. SelfChill technologies are all solar-powered and based on vapor compression heat pumps. They are offered as DC systems with thermal storage and AC systems for cold rooms and freezing rooms. Most cooling systems use natural refrigerants such as R290 and R600a with ultra-low GWP.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Germany
Availability: Africa, Latin America, Asia
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Grain storage and processing: automated ventilation grain storage silo
WEG
The WEG automation system for silo ventilation is an energy-efficient solution to ensure improved silo and grain storage management. It enables appropriate ventilation levels using electric motors and variable speed drives that allow the system to adjust to any kind of grain. The system provides the right aeration rate to maintain a homogenous temperature, saves up to 90 percent energy, enables mass humidity control, and avoids losses due to excessive drying. The technology uses thermometry to enable reduced fan speed and grain quality maintenance. The temperature variation causes fewer grain breaks, thereby producing better quality grain, and allows for precise control of the stored volume.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Brazil
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Milling: solar agro-processing machine
Agsol
The MicroMill is powered by solar, mini-grid, grid, or even e-bike to process cereal grains, pulses and tubers. It is 2.5 times more efficient than other small electric mills, providing 55 kg/h ±10 percent for fine flour and 250 kg/h for chicken feed. It’s easy to swap screens in and out to produce fine flour or coarse grits for animal feed. The solar package includes a 600 Wh LFP battery, 48 V MPPT charge controller and 600 W of solar PV. Battery PV capacity can be adapted to meet customer requirements. Pay-as-you-go options are available.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Kenya
Availability: Kenya
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Food packaging: sustainable nanocellulose materials
NINGBO TANGJU New Materials Co. Ltd
Cellulose nanomaterials (CNMs) are derived from sustainable processes and green resources and possess unique properties such as nanoscale dimension, high surface area, and biodegradability. Nanocellulose from sustainable resources is being used to replace petroleum-based materials for food packaging. Researchers have successfully extracted nanocellulose from local agricultural waste such as bagasse, wheat straw, apple stalks and corn cobs, and applied it to food packaging. Nanocellulose-based functional materials are also being widely utilized in various aspects of agricultural production. They can enhance biodegradable agricultural mulch and be used as a new type of agricultural chemical, including new pesticides, feed, slow-release fertilizers and soil water-retention agents. The sustainable development of agricultural resources using nanocellulose materials can limit agricultural pollution, and improve the quality and efficiency of agricultural production.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: High
Country of origin: China
Availability: Worldwide
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Horizon
Cold storage: freeze point suppression cooling system
Rebound Technologies
Rebound’s patented cooling system called IcePoint was developed with support from the National Science Foundation in the United States, with the aim of improving on vapor compression. Normal vapor compression moves heat by changing the pressure of a refrigerant, which requires energy-intensive compressors. IcePoint uses a highly efficient thermodynamic cycle called freeze point suppression that alters the refrigerant’s chemical composition, enabling adaptability to fluctuating cooling demands. It can create a –40°C refrigerant at night by mixing ice with a freeze point suppressant such as salt and then deploying the brine refrigerant for cooling, after which the mixture is separated into water and freeze suppressant and reused in the cycle. This allows cooling to be applied in the exact amount needed at the appropriate time. Rebound Technologies, an advanced refrigeration equipment supplier, has commissioned the first full-scale commercial IcePoint system, now operational at Lineage Logistics’ 115,000 ft2 cold storage and blast freezing facility in Greeley, Colorado.
Contracting type: N/A
Technology level: High
Country of origin: United States
Availability: United States
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Cold storage: solar-powered ice block machine
AIREF
The ice block machine runs using solar power and R290 refrigerant, which is a preferred hydrocarbon alternative for more harmful fluorocarbon refrigerants with high GWPs that can destroy the ozone layer. The ice maker has a 1.2-ton capacity production, 12 horsepower, and a smart and fully automatic system. It is scalable and modular, ozone friendly.
Contracting type: N/A
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Indonesia
Availability: N/A
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Grain storage and processing: pedal-powered thresher and blender
Maya Pedal
Maya Pedal reconditions donated bikes from the United States and Canada and either sells them or recycles parts to create various types of bicimáquinas (bicycle machines). The bicimáquinas are adapted to fit a hand powered grinding mill or a corn thresher. The mill function has the capacity to mill 1.36 kg per minute of any type of grain with the most common use being for milling yellow maize, soybeans and coffee. The thresher is used post-harvest to degrain 1,200–1,500 kg per day, requiring only one person to operate the machine.
Contracting type: For sale
Technology level: Low
Country of origin: Guatemala
Availability: Guatemala
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database
Heating: thermal pest control system for wooden pallets
BioAfriq Energy
BioAfriq Energy is an established manufacturer of biomass pellet fuels, pure solar food dryers, and hybrid dryers which use both biofuel and solar energy. During 2024, the company successfully developed and applied a new low carbon heating system in collaboration with a food hygiene and cargo inspection company. The new system works by heating a truck container to high temperatures. It is capable of eliminating pests in wooden pallets and home items in one hour’s time. BioAfriq is now working on finalizing the model and introducing it to the market.
Contracting type: Under development
Technology level: Medium
Country of origin: Kenya
Availability: N/A
Contact: WIPO GREEN Database