Partners: University of Oxford, ÉireComposites & Save the Children International
Funding: Innovate UK’s Energy. £230,000 over the course of 12 months.
Disclaimer – “This project is being supported with financial contribution from Innovate UK under Energy Catalyst Round 9”
Overview of OxReGen
The OxReGen project, funded by Innovate UK, is dedicated to developing economical, reliable renewable energy solutions for off-grid applications in Somalia. Leveraging patented electronics from the University of Oxford, cutting-edge composites solutions from ÉireComposites, and extensive local knowledge from Save the Children International, this initiative aims to provide affordable, low-carbon energy via a wind turbine mini-grid system to a community in Somalia. This project is especially vital given the nation’s current energy challenges, with only 15% of the population having access to electricity, according to the Somalia National Development Plan.
Innovative Wind Turbine Technology
At the heart of the OxReGen project is a pioneering 10kW wind turbine technology, developed at the University of Oxford. This patented system enables the production of reliable, affordable and low-carbon energy. A prototype installed in Ireland has successfully demonstrated its capability by heating water. The project’s primary research focus is to explore using off-the-shelf wind turbine components, and to integrate the technology into a smart mini grid to store electricity efficiently. Additionally, the mechanical design of the wind turbine will be improved, and a suitable test site will be selected in Somalia. With its significant potential for onshore wind energy, Somalia presents a prime opportunity for this technology.
Key Advantages of OxReGen’s Wind Turbine:
- Minimal Maintenance: Designed for simplicity and ease of upkeep.
- Recyclable Blades: Made from robust, recyclable materials.
- Low Environmental Footprint: Features almost noiseless operation and a minimised carbon footprint.
- Local Sourcing: Utilizes locally sourced parts to reduce shipping emissions and support the Somalian economy.
- Mass Production: Employs affordable, mass-produced components.
- Innovative Electrical Circuit: Features a patented circuit that allows an induction motor to self-excite, generating off-grid electricity, unlike traditional doubly fed induction generators.
Project Consortium
The OxReGen project brings together three organisations spanning research, engineering, manufacturing, and children’s rights. Oxford University, a renowned education and research institution, is coordinating the project as well as taking on the development of the electronics required for the mini-grid. ÉireComposites is an industry leader in fibre-reinforced composite design, manufacturing and testing, and will produce custom wind turbine blades with increased longevity and robustness. Save the Children International is a global non-profit organisation with a strong network in Somalia and will leverage this to identify an appropriate location and monitor the technology installation.
Impact and Applications
The OxReGen technology has the potential to not only transform but save lives across Africa. The applications of this novel wind turbine are numerous and could benefit healthcare facilities, schools and refugee camps. For example, the electricty generated could:
- Refrigerate vaccines: Ensuring vaccines are stored at safe temperatures.
- Power internet access: Enabling connectivity for education and communication.
- Pump groundwater: Providing essential water for communities.
- Provide lighting: Ensuring access to lighting for homes and public spaces.
- Charge mobile phones: Supporting communication and access to information.
In summary, the OxReGen project will introduce a low-maintenance wind turbine mini-grid system with sustainability and simplicity at its core, enhancing the resilience of a Somalian community.
