Mon, 05 December, 2022
As the coordinator of the IMPHORAA project, Technovative Solutions Ltd (TVS) is developing a PCM-based cool box methodology, a cool box control system and a control system app for off-grid rural communities. The cool box and the control system will be integrated into the IMPHORAA system, to be deployed in Madagascar and the Philippines. This technology will be powered using photovoltaics.
During the last quarter, TVS has developed a methodology for the PCM-based DC-powered cool box with a defined specification and functionality. Relevant pieces of equipment and accessories have been integrated into the cool box, with the lab-testing coming to an end in the near future (please see figure 1 for diagram). In January 2023, the PCM-based cool box will be ready to be demonstrated in the Philippines.
Figure 1. Schematic of IMPHORAA Cool Box
The cool box controller developed by TVS will measure temperature and current periodically and turn the compressor on or off based on the user’s selected temperature. It will also display process values and enable pairing with the cool box app via a touchscreen display.
Along with coordinating and developing cool box methodology and controller supported by the controller app, TVS is leading an economic, environmental and life cycle analysis of the IMPHORAA model. Solar photovoltaic (PV) technology is attractive for electricity production thanks to its noiseless, simple operation and maintenance activities and low carbon profile. To assess the environmental impacts of the IMPHORAA PV systems generating electricity, the life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology has been utilised, which incorporates state-of-the-art research on PV modules and life cycle inventory (LCI) data. Figure 2 shows a diagram of the system boundary of the system.
Figure 2. System Boundary of the IMPHORAA System
Finally, TVS is also developing a business model for the rural off-grid community of the Philippines that will enable the sustainability and longevity of the IMPHORAA project.
This project is supported by Innovate UKs Energy Catalyst Programme (funding by the Foreign, Commonwealth Development Office through their Transforming Energy Access Programme) and UK aid and was awarded as a “subsidy” under the UK International Obligations for Subsidy Control and delivered under Grant 90935 from Innovate UK