A unique innovative utility scale solar energy technology that utilises a field of low cost heliostat collectors to concentrate sunlight onto an ultra-efficient multi-junction photovoltaic cell array

Project Information

RAYGEN

Grant agreement ID: 674628

DOI

10.3030/674628

Project closed

EC signature date 23 May 2015

Start date 1 May 2015

End date 31 October 2015

Funded under

• SOCIETAL CHALLENGES - Secure, clean and efficient energy

Total cost

€ 71 429,00

EU contribution

€ 50 000,00

Coordinated by

RAYGEN RESOURCES LTD
United Kingdom

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - RAYGEN (A unique innovative utility scale solar energy technology that utilises a field of low cost heliostat collectors to concentrate sunlight onto an ultra-efficient multi-junction photovoltaic cell array)

Reporting period: 2015-05-01 to 2015-10-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

There is a global need to reduce the dependence on fossil fuels as a resource, increasing the share of renewable energy. RayGen has identified the market opportunity opened through the 2020 targets set by the EU to increase energy production from renewable sources to 20%. Additionally, current utility PV installations require a large quantity of PV panels (semiconductors), space (land resources) and are very capital intensive. RayGen offers a proprietary breakthrough utility scale solar energy technology that utilises a field of low cost heliostat collectors to concentrate sunlight onto an ultra-efficient multi-junction photovoltaic cell array located in a mast mounted central receiver. The system is easily scalable. The technology combines the benefits of traditional PV with solar thermal energy installations and leverages several patents and trade secrets. The technology has been validated through extensive lab tests and the Australian mother company has deployed two test sites in Newbridge, Australia and ZhouZhou, China. The objectives of RayGen’s Phase 2 project are to finalise engineering and optimisation of the scaled up power plant and its components; demonstrate and validate the technology through the deployment of a large scale in-field test; and develop a European supply and value chain. The overall objective of the project is to start full commercialisation of RayGen’s concentrated solar technology as a reliable innovation validated by the relevant clients, project developers and EPC contractors, and end-users, utility companies.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

RayGen accomplished a full analysis of the technical and business potential of the CONRAY 1MW system to be deployed. Throughout the duration of the project, RayGen has expanded their existing knowledge of the solar energy industry, the potential efficiency of the technology and in particular the European market. Many commercial aspects of the technology and business have been assessed. RayGen analysed its current level of development and reviewed its overall project objectives to realise the necessary design optimisation required for the intended deployment of the CONRAY power plant. A suitable risk analysis was carried out, with system level reliability issues identified as key risks, and necessary mitigation strategies prepared. Within the business feasibility, RayGen addressed its value chain identifying strategic partnerships that will be fundamental to both the successful delivery of the Phase 2 project and through commercialisation. During the PH1 project RayGen has defined a minimum viable product, established engineering and industrialisation plans, and as well prepared the IP strategy.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

The expected outcome of the project is to start full commercialisation of RayGen’s CONRAY solar system at the end of Phase 2 as a reliable innovation validated by the relevant clients and end users. The RayGen solution will offer an efficient and reliable solution to concentrated solar power whilst offering a highly competitive and cost-effective fuel source. RayGen will also create jobs and boost economic growth for European SMEs. RayGen’s technology will strongly contribute to the goals of the EU2020 targets with respect to climate change and energy, considering in particular the target 20% of energy to be produced by renewables. The overall vision of the RayGen management team is to integrate concentrated solar power throughout the renewable energy industry, whilst offering the EU global leadership in this field.

Heliostat

Installatiion